Local woman grows through theatre involvement

Story by Lauren Jackson

Photos contributed

Being involved in a community theatre group was not something Allison Smith ever imagined herself doing.

Somewhat shy, Smith said it was not until graduate school that she first began working backstage with a group. Now, with the encouragement of friends, Smith has performed in a number of productions and made some of her best friends through the process.

Having been on stage since 2017, Smith said she has seen a positive impact on her personal life. “I have always considered myself to be a bit of an introvert. Really, that is part of the reason that I decided to do it these last couple of years – because I felt like I needed to challenge myself and get myself out of my comfort zone,” Smith said. “It has provided me with a great way of doing that, but it is definitely not something I considered years ago when I was still very shy and somewhat introverted.”

Smith first began her involvement with community theatre backstage, out of the spotlight. Her employer approached her about helping out with a children’s group, and Smith said she found it was an easy transition into taking on a role on stage. “I got involved when I was in grad school actually,” she explained. “I strictly did backstage work for a couple of children’s theatres and then adults theatres. I was working with children at the time, and I kind of did that as a way to help them out and actually help their parents out a little bit. Then I kind of took a break from it after doing a couple of shows with them, and a couple of years went by. When I moved back to the Hartselle-Decatur area, a couple friends pushed me to get back involved in it – to kind of move from behind the curtain to the stage. I decided to audition and have loved it ever since.”

Being involved with a community theatre group has given Smith more than just personal confidence; she said it has brought her a second family. “I think it has had a very positive, very great impact on me,” she said. “I feel more comfortable talking to people. I never had a lot of difficulty communicating with people, but it definitely comes more easily now.

“Through the theatre itself I have gained a whole new circle of friends that are more like family than friends,” she added. “There are so many wonderful people that are participating in community theatre. Whether we are doing a show or not, they are always pressing me to be the best version of myself – always giving me confidence and encouraging me. I like to think I do the same for them.”

Smith took her first role in 2017 in “Fiddler on the Roof.” Although she said she was nervous about the process at first, it was a memorable experience. “It was really great because from the moment that I walked in the doors to audition, I felt like everyone was really welcoming and excited to have a new face,” Smith said. “I know for a fact that Bank Street Players are always welcoming new faces. I remember being a bit nervous because I wasn’t really sure what I was getting into, but I also remember being filled with happiness and joy and excitement, and that ran from rehearsal No. 1 through the final performance of the show,” Smith said.

Although she began participating in community theatre in college, Smith said she has always held an appreciation for it. “I think when I was younger I attended shows, and I always thought of it as being a really wonderful thing – to allow the community to see these beautiful shows that teach and encourage. I think they bring out the best, even in audience members.

“Having moved from appreciating community theatre to actually performing, I can say that when you are a part of something that is part of the cultural heart of your community, you have a sense of pride,” Smith added. “I feel like it is heartwarming and encouraging to be able to help other members of your community and show them essentially some living art in your community.”

Since she first stepped on the stage in 2017, Smith has been earning ensemble roles. She said in the future she might even look to branch out further from her comfort zone. “I have been an ensemble performer. I have thoroughly enjoyed it; I like the singing and the dancing, and it’s provided me with a smooth transition into community theatre without the demands of a big role. Of course, I would love to play a different role and expand out in the future, but like I said, it has been a great way for me to transition into the theatre and get used to everything and get my feet wet.”

Smith said she has received overwhelming support from both her family and stage family. She said when she took on her first role she was nervous, but she knew she had a great support system behind her. “I remember being incredibly nervous, although I had a lot of people around me that were encouraging me and making me as comfortable as possible about it. I remember being very nervous especially when I heard the audience members getting settled out in the house and then getting the news that we had actually sold out for that night,” Smith said. “Once I got out there and started with it, it was a wonderful feeling – especially with the wonderful reaction we got from our audiences throughout that show.”

To anyone in the community who has considered taking part in theatre, Smith said they should reach out to the groups in the area. “Anybody who has ever considered or felt themselves drawn to the theatre at all – but has maybe shied away from it – they really need to try to embrace it and, if nothing else, go and audition for a show and at least try it,” she said. “It is absolutely amazing, and it can affect your life in multiple ways if you will let it.”