If you drove by the Kirk Douglas Theatre on a recent Sunday night, you probably saw one person at the door early in the evening and not much else going on. After all, the Kirk Douglas Theatre was preparing for the opening of “Method Gun,” which started on June 14 and recently went out with a bang on June 26. But, unbeknownst to passers-by, there was a lively celebration going on inside. The Fringe, Center Theatre Group’s social and philanthropic young professional membership group, gathered inside to celebrate theatre’s evening: The Tony Awards.
The Tony Awards Watch Party was one of The Fringe’s social activities; that is, in addition to official theatre-related events. The Fringe transformed the practice space on the second floor into a sophisticated lounge, complete with chaise seating, a wine and beer bar, and edibles from pizza to delectable desserts. Before the show, members mingled and caught up with each other, talked excitedly about upcoming shows, and discussed community happenings. During the show, Fringe members cheered for their favorites, and Neil Patrick Harris. The practice room in the Kirk Douglas Theatre was the hot spot for theatre and fun-loving young professionals that evening. And I was part of the group.
I joined The Fringe earlier this year not only because I loved theatre, socializing, and philanthropy, but also because I was looking for an activity that required human engagement. As much as I loved sports (and kickball), I wanted to do something cultural, thought-provoking, and presented opportunities for real discourse.
In these times when instantaneous response is common and appear more important than thoughtful discussions, opportunities where we can truly connect with each other feel far and few between. Humanity seems more disconnected by all the technological connections. But for 90 or so minutes, theatre provides a space where we can become engaged and reconnect with the human experience. We, the audience, have time to empathize with the characters and watch them transform and grow. Lines provide words to what most of us have felt but probably could not so adequately express. The actors embody us or people we know. Plays challenge us and make us think. We also connect as members of the audience. We are aghast, we laugh, and we experience silence as a group. Theater makes us be present.
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The Fringe expands the connection beyond the space of the theatre. Mixers after official events (selected shows) allow members to further discuss the show and, really, just connect with each other. One of the many things I love about The Fringe is the diversity of backgrounds and opinions that makes for lively discussions. In addition to its diversity, most (if not all) of Fringe members are involved in the community. Though members are from a variety of professional backgrounds, most are the emerging or are the new leaders in their field. I can’t help but be inspired by all of them.
The Fringe takes the theatre experience to a level that not only engages its members in the art but also with each other and the community as a whole. The Fringe is fun, philanthropic, and just overall fabulous.
Photos courtesy of Casey Curry. www.caseycurry.com
