Magic & Excitement

Connecting with others who share the enjoyment of working with children and the love of theatre, led me to volunteer at Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People. As a child, growing up in Toronto, my family had visited the Young People’s Theatre many times and I remember how much I had valued those experiences. Having returned to Toronto after more than 20 years my sister, who has always been involved in theatre, suggested volunteering. Taking a leave from my job as a kindergarten teacher of 18 years in Hamilton, I was keen to keep myself busy with something I enjoyed. Volunteering this year has meant meeting teachers and students during the week for school shows and on weekends meeting families who have come to enjoy the shows. I have had the opportunity to lead some of the Question and Answer sessions. This is a favourite part after the show where children and educators get a chance to ask the actors questions.
In the spring the Open Doors Toronto event helped me learn more about the building and the history of the neighbourhood. During the summer months assisting with the drama school camps whether with the young enthusiastic professional teachers, in the office working with the creative administrators or helping supervise children during lunch was a lot of fun. It has been a privilege to meet all the professionals at the theatre including production crews, actors, directors, musicians, box office managers, and educators, and to work closely with the front of house manager, Margaret. I have met many volunteers, some who are new to Canada, from Taiwan, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, and Germany. The theatre has an active Co-op student program and the students who come here are eager young people who are thinking of future careers in theatre. Volunteering has meant having a chance to watch the performances. Whether in the Main Stage theatre or the Studio theatre the shows have been varied and excellent.Each child and adult who attends comes away with a unique experience. Teachers leaving the current show, The Forbidden Phoenix, have marveled at every aspect of the performance. Children leave wanting to learn more about Chinese history in Canada, Peking opera and martial arts. Everyone who comes to the theatre is looking for the magic and the excitement of live theatre. I know I find something magical and exciting every time I am here.

-Marcia