Although the group has been around for only a few years, Klaglahachie Fine Arts Society (KFAS) has brought plays to warm the hearts of audiences and has seen a strong board of directors push for its advancement in that short time.
KFAS recently held its annual general meeting and with it found new members, with the youngest being David Luce, 19, and the oldest being Dennis Jones, 80, who both wanted to be part of the organization.
“We’re thrilled we’ve got some youthful ones,” said KFAS president Richard McKelvie. “We’ll change our course because of them.”
The new board is comprised of 14 individuals, enough to try out new and exciting ventures at KFAS. This year board member Brielle Wolfe is helping organize a weekend dance and choreography workshop guided by Theatre Alberta that is open to the public. The workshop will help thespians learn how to incorporate dance into a play.
“Everybody seems really interested,” said Wolfe.
She feels this will also get people more involved with acting and KFAS performances. More information on the workshop is expected to be released as dates get closer. “We’re aiming for two to three days,” added Wolfe.
Jones said he wanted to take part in KFAS as soon as he moved to Ponoka. He had a part in Mary Poppins this year and used his college acting experience to help create his character. For Jones, the goal is to share some of his experience with the younger actors.
Luce, who also performed in Mary Poppins ended up enjoying it so much he wanted to help behind the scenes. He earned himself the nickname of “stage dad” during performances because of his positive help and interaction with the younger actors.
“Being part of the decision making is something I enjoy,” said Luce. “It’s nice being able to know what’s going on and being able to give ideas.”
McKelvie said each of the members help KFAS in their own special way. Directors may take part in the acting, behind the scenes or in the planning and business side of the organization. The big thing this year for KFAS was the final construction of its new stage seating and new lights.
Treasurer Marion Raugust said the seating is something the board has been working on since KFAS was formed. Attendees now have good sight lines to the stage and improved lighting and sound. Raugust said they continually add to the lighting and sound to improve the performance for play-goers. “It took us a few years to accomplish that but we made it.”
She said the hope is to bring a drama camp to kids over the summer months.
The fall play brings a fun classic and exciting element for 2016, which is A Christmas Carol. First auditions are expected to happen in May.
