High school theater productions are not the only ones that put in shows in Lee’s Summit. Summit Theatre Group (STG) is a relatively new theatre group from Lee’s Summit. The first season was the 2011-2012 season where they produced two plays and one musical. Not only is STG made up of adults from Lee’s Summit but there is also some Lee’s Summit West students involved.
Junior Katie Carpenter was in STG’s production of “The Music Man” over the summer. Carpenter was a part of the teen ensemble and won a Ton Yee girl. Being in a non-high school production was a different experience for Carpenter.
“It was a very good experience being with a cast of all ages and not just high school. I enjoyed working with the adults and getting helpful tips from them. It also had more competition which made me a better performer.”
What makes STG different is that it is made up of very different people from around a town where some people might not expect something like this to be a big deal.
“My favorite part of being in the show was being a part of something new for Lee’s Summit that will hopefully continue for a while. I also enjoyed meeting people in my area with similar interests as me.”
Although it was very different from high school theatre, Carpenter said that being involved with STG was definitely a positive experience.
“It pushed me to explore my boundaries and take risks as a performer. I also learned that in theatre you have to go big or go home. It’s better to go all out at rehersal and look like a fool then stay inside a safe area. If you don’t take risks then the audience isn’t entertained.”
Carpenter also encourages other high school theatre students to get involved with STG.
“Whether you are new to theatre or a veteran, STG is a great program to be involved with. Especially if you don’t like the drama that naturally comes with high school theatre.”
STG is always looking for new people to be involved with acting or backstage work. They will announce their 2013 season on November 17.
By: Abbey Stoetzel
