The magic of local theater happens long before the curtain rises, in rehearsal spaces, garages, and dressing rooms, where strangers become storytellers through patient practice and mutual support. This project endeavors to document the work of creating a story: the collaborative ritual of costume and makeup, the process of discovering character, the technical effort of building a world.
What began as a group of strangers united only by their love of theater, the cast forged bonds of friendship and trust, empowering them to push the production to be as good as they could make it. With very little budget and relying significantly on volunteer labor and student contributions, this production became a study in resourceful collaboration and community efforts.
These photographs document the relationships and community that emerges when people commit to a common creative goal. Students learning alongside seasoned volunteers, cast members doubling as crew, everyone pitching in wherever needed: painting sets, organizing props, perfecting makeup techniques through trial and error.
Thank you to Stone Soup Theater Co. for having me out to document these efforts. Please go check them out and support their ongoing shows!