Workhouse Theatre adds talent by ‘keeping it local’
By: Dan Hylton 08/01/2009
It has long-been a goal of the Camden-based Workhouse Theatre Company (WTC) to play its role in the Northside arts scene resurgence by bringing theatre artists together to practice in their own neighborhood. This summer WTC scored a coup in that regard, swelling its ranks by way of the addition of three new company members, all Camden residents.
Mark Webb, a Victory neighborhood resident, was brought on board as managing director in June. A freelance lighting designer, with two years of Workhouse Theatre volunteerism under his belt, Webb's work has been seen at Starting Gate Productions, Theatre In The Round and Festival Theatre, among others in his 25 years of experience. He brings a wealth of nonprofit business experience to Workhouse Theatre, and says he looks forward to helping the company expand its programming.
With a Masters Degree in Theatre Design from The University of Minnesota and 10 years of professional experience in technical theatre, new production manager Sarah Leigh also brings a strong track record of technical experience to the table. Like Webb, she has volunteered with Workhouse Theatre for the past two seasons, designing sets for the company's past five main stage productions. A Victory neighborhood resident, Leigh currently freelances in theatre design, and is expecting her first child this October.
Michelle Blodgett, who will be managing the education and outreach efforts for Workhouse Theatre, has a lengthy professional history in just that type of work. Having managed arts education and programming from Honolulu to Storm Lake, Iowa, Blodgett is currently the Minnesota Children's Museum Program Director. This year, in and around her responsibilities for Workhouse, Blodgett, who is a newer resident of Camden, will be returning to college to pursue a Master's Degree in Arts Therapy.
As a result of the new additions, Workhouse Theatre is now enjoying the largest number of permanent staff in its five-year existence. For the upcoming 2009-2010 season, the company plans to stage three performances at The Warren: An Artist Habitat (4400 Osseo Road), along with performances of original work at Kroening Interpretive Center's Heritage Day in September, and Holiday on 44th in December. For info about Workhouse Theatre or to get involved contact info@workhousetheatre.org or 612-386-5763.