Community Theater

Mary Orr stands among her fellow “Angels in America” cast members. The play was previously produced in Bozeman.

Provided by Mary Orr

Woman “spreading [her] wings” with role in local production of “Cabaret”

By Jennifer Verzuh

Mary Orr started acting in elementary school when her eldest brother wrote scripts that she and her brother would perform in. Since then, she’s steadily been involved with live theater from her time as a part of the high school drama club to her current role at 69-years-old as a cast member in Verge Theater’s upcoming local production of the Berlin-set musical “Cabaret.” “I have done community theater all my life, and this one is probably my winter project to keep me busy during the winter cold months,” Orr said. Orr said she loves community theater because it welcomes everyone and allows for connection and camaraderie. “I get to meet people that I wouldn’t meet any other way,” she said. “It’s kind of like the experience people have on a sports team. We all work together. We all support one another, and it’s a great way to create community.” In addition to acting, Orr has also volunteered with all of the theater groups in Bozeman, assisting with front of house duties and helping take tickets. “I always get more out of it than I give,” she said.

Although Orr has performed in stage productions for decades, “Cabaret” poses a specifi c new challenge for her. “I’ve never had a major role in a musical before,” she said. “This is my fi rst one. I’m spreading my wings.” As Fraulein Schneider, Orr will dance onstage and have two solos, which she is both “terrifi ed and very excited” for. “I think it’s important for people my age to keep growing, and get out of your comfort zone.” The show’s director Nadia Mell said that Fraulein Schneider is the “emotional core” of the story. “Structurally [she] is the protagonist of the show,” Mell said. “She has the ‘I Want’ song [a fi xture of musicals in which the main character expresses their desires] that brings the audience in and sets the stakes.” Mell previously worked with Orr on a recent local production of the play “Angels in America,” which she produced, and said collaborating with her on “Cabaret” has been “delightful.” “We’re focusing on the story and storytelling, and Mary is an incredible storyteller,” Mell said. “She really does bring a sort of poise and confi dence to a lot of her dialogue. Everything that she’s brought to it I’ve said yes to.” Orr said Verge Theatre is very open to new talent and seniors interested in performing in future productions should feel free to audition for future productions, but there’s also other ways to participate as a volunteer or crew member for those who don’t want to be onstage. The non-profi t organization also offers a wide variety of classes and workshops for adults. More information on them can be found at https:// www.vergetheater.com. “When I say there’s a place for everyone, there really is. There’s positions like being the prop master[...] or costuming or working front of house, so you don’t have to be a great actor or actress to get involved with the community theater scene.” “Cabaret” will have performances throughout February at the Verge Theater, located within the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture. Tickets can be purchased at https://vergetheater.square.site.

Bozeman Lions CLuB

eye glasses collection box for prescription or non-prescription and dark glasses at The Bozeman senior Center, The Belgrade senior Center, The manhattan senior Center and The Three Rivers senior Citizens Club in Three Forks. For more information, contact Richard Reiley at 406-388-7840 Visit us on the web at http://e-clubhouse.org/sites/bozemanmt

Mary Orr rehearses for her upcoming role in the musical “Cabaret.”

Provided by Mary Orr

A Note from the Editor:

Do you know a senior who should be featured in a future edition of prime? Email your suggestions to Jennifer Verzuh at jennifer.verzuh@gmail.com Community Theater .............................................2 Living With Death .................................................4 Considerations for retirees ...................................6 Sansevieria .............................................................8 Old Guys Music ...................................................10 Can You Reduce The Medicare Surcharge? ......12 Meal Service In Senior Centers .....................14-15 Bozeman Senior Center Fitness & Recreation ..16