Arts & Entertainment
My Fair Lady Kicks off the 2024 Season
My Fair Lady runs from 7/6 thru 7/21 (see dates)Photo Credit: Spring Lake Community House & Theatre website
Entrance to the Spring Lake Community House & TheatrePhoto Credit: Jim Lonergan
Putting Final Touches before Opening NightPhoto Credit: Jim Lonergan
The Stage is set for Opening DayPhoto Credit: Jim Lonergan
My Fair Lady runs from 7/6 thru 7/21 (see dates)Photo Credit: Spring Lake Community House & Theatre website
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By Jim Lonergan
Published July 6, 2024 at 1:33 PM
Last updated July 6, 2024 at 3:29 PM
SPRING LAKE, NJ - Residents in New Jersey have long enjoyed the unique privilege of being a reasonable drive or train ride away from the dazzling lights of New York City’s Broadway. Whether they are in the mood for a musical, comedy, love story, or a play reenacting historical events, New Jerseyans have access to some of the world's best live theater. However, for those residing at the shore or in South or Central Jersey, the journey to NYC can be a lengthy, expensive endeavor, often consuming a large portion of an already hectic day. Imagine, then, discovering a local venue that offers Broadway-caliber productions, right in your backyard. This dream is a reality at the Spring Lake Community House & Theatre (SLCHT) in Spring Lake.
Anyone acquainted with Spring Lake and the Spring Lake Theatre Company (SLTC) knows Patricia “Pat” Barry. Since its inception in 1975, Pat has been the heart and soul of SLTC acting as Executive Director. Her versatility and dedication have been pivotal in the production of countless shows over the decades. Pat has worn many hats: producer, costume designer, director, fundraiser, and overseer of lighting and music, to name a few. Reflecting on the theater’s humble beginnings with its worn carpet and drapery, Ms. Barry remarked, “It just needs a little money and love. Never in a million years could I have imagined that I would have been a part of this magical place for the rest of my life.” She calls it a happy accident, adding, “If it wasn’t for the fact that someone believed in and trusted a young mother of three with absolutely no background in theatre or management, none of this would have happened.”
The theme of the SLTC remains the same today and was echoed by a recent discussion with current Director Andrew Ferrie “There’s Always Something Wonderful Happening here.” Anyone in business knows that if you create a good product or service, people will come. If you create a strong work culture, people will want to give up their time and share their skills with others. Do that enough and things grow and multiple, or in business its called "10X.” That seems to be what is going on in Spring Lake. As Ferrie highlighted, “talent begets talent. Almost all the on-stage actors are volunteers, many with proven Broadway experience who so want to share their skills in a professional environment, seeking to spread the love of acting.” Is it a big commitment? "You bet said Ferrie. Five weeks of rehearsals, one week of technical rehearsal and then into performing for three weeks with multiple shows."
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The opening season at the Spring Lake Theatre Company kicks off with the beloved classic “My Fair Lady” today, Saturday, July 6th, and will be followed by five other shows throughout the year. When asked about his expectations for “My Fair Lady,” Ferrie responded, “The orchestral talent, the acting talent, the lighting and production crew, the costumes, and of course, the actors are first-rate wrapped around a first-rate organization." As the Director of My Fair Lady and many other Spring Lake Theatre Company productions, Ferrie is confident in the exceptional quality and dedication of everyone involved, bringing each show to life with a level of professionalism and passion that rivals Broadway itself.
Beyond the impressive productions, in speaking with residents in and around Spring Lake, the same message was conveyed by all: the Spring Lake Theatre offers a sense of community and belonging that is truly special. This theater has become a cornerstone of cultural life in and around Spring Lake, where both performers and audiences come together to create and celebrate the arts. The Spring Lake Theatre Company is more than a theater; it is a testament to what can be achieved when passion, talent, and community converge. In a world where the hustle and bustle of everyday life often takes precedence, the Spring Lake Theatre Company stands as a beacon of creativity and inspiration, inviting everyone to experience the magic of theater close to home.
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