Volunteer Spotlight: Kaitlyn Beth
In this month’s Volunteer Spotlight, we’re featuring, Kaitlyn Beth! Born and raised in Quincy, Kaitlyn recently graduated with her BFA in theatre from Culver Stockton and will soon be expanding her resume to St. Louis, Missouri. She most recently appeared on stage in Shakespeare in Love, and behind the scenes as Assistant Stage Manager for Matilda the Musical and The Music Man.
How did you first become involved with QCT?
I first got involved at QCT through an internship. I needed an internship for my degree and at the time, one of my professors was on Sabbatical at QCT (Haidee Heaton). She and another of my directors got in contact and I got an amazing internship that summer. I was Assistant Stage Manager for the student production of Trap, as well as working in the Box Office and whatever else needed to be covered! Then I worked on the crew for Legally Blonde! It was a full summer but I found such amazing friends and people at QCT that I couldn’t stay away.
What areas have you volunteered in during your time with QCT? Are there any other volunteer opportunities at QCT you’d like to try?
I have been volunteering for two years at QCT now. I have volunteered as an usher, crew, assistant stage manager, and even onstage once! I would love to volunteer with the costume shop. I worked in the costume shop at Culver and learned a lot. I think it is a fun place to learn different skills and help out in many different ways!
Do you prefer performing on stage or working behind the scenes? Why?
I have a passion for the behind-the-scenes/backstage aspect, but now and then I do love to get on stage and act. I have never liked the spotlight and always tend to hang on the side anyway, so if I get to help make other people shine and look amazing, that’s where I am happiest.
When you’re not at QCT, what does a typical day look like for you?
Depending on my role in the show I am involved in, my days are pretty open. If I am backstage or assistant stage managing, I will always spend some of the day making sure that everything is ready for that night and there isn’t anything I can be doing or adding to help make things easier and more efficient for everyone else!
What would you say to encourage someone else to get involved at QCT?
I know how intimidating QCT may seem. I never volunteered or auditioned here until I was much older. However, this is such a happy and uplifting place. When you come for an audition, it can be the scariest experience. Yet, the other actors you get to work with are so encouraging, and the directors make sure everything is clear before you begin. If you want to volunteer backstage, but just don’t know where to start, don’t be afraid to ask anyone! They will get you connected with the right people and whatever help you need. QCT is such a home to so many people and it has truly become one to me. If you want to get involved, do it! You won’t regret it!
I am moving in the next couple of weeks and have to find a new place to volunteer and/or work. Every day that leads up to that move is so bittersweet because of the friends and memories I have made through QCT. This is truly a “home” and I will miss everyone I have ever had the pleasure of working with! I can’t wait to come back and see future shows! Thank you to everyone who made my short time here amazing and truly wonderful!