Meet Our Volunteers for GHOSTLIGHT
Behind every production at QCT is a multi-talented group of volunteers who help to take these shows from the script to the stage. Get to know a few of our volunteers who are working both on and off stage in GHOSTLIGHT.
Jessica Crockett is a Quincy native who has been a part of the arts for what feels like her entire life. You might have seen her onstage in years past or as part of the crew in NEWSIES last summer. Those platforms didn’t move themselves! When she’s not helping out at QCT, her husband usually is. Jessica gave him the nudge he needed to help with crew for CHICAGO, and since then, he has helped with many more.
Sullivan Holthaus of Quincy is a student at John Wood Community College. She spends most of her time working at Quincy Children’s Museum, childcare at LifePoint Church, and babysitting.
Daxton Holthaus is a sophomore at Quincy High School. Dax caught the acting bug at the early age of 4 when he played an otter in WIND IN THE WILLOWS at QCT. He plays the trumpet and is involved in show choir. Dax loves music, recently started a band, and is obsessed with Green Day.
1. How did you get involved with QCT? What was your first show? Describe your experience.
Jessica – After many years away from performing, in 2018, I felt the need to just take the leap and jump into auditioning for MAMMA MIA. To be honest? It took a lot of convincing myself during those weeks leading up to auditions. I both knew what to expect and had no clue at the same time. I never really expected the email congratulating me on making it into the ensemble, though. I was in shock, but it started one of the best life experiences I could have ever asked for. I don’t think I was fully prepared for the lasting friendships that I have made during the shows that I’ve been a part of. MAME definitely has a special place in my heart. Everyone in that cast became family to each other. I can remember getting into our opening spots for the show. The stage was in complete darkness as we all silently filed out. It became a tradition for the person who was supposed to end up near me that each of us would have our hand held out and when we inevitably found each other in the pitch black, we would hold each other’s hand fighting back our laughter (or on the last Sunday show, our tears) until the curtain raised slightly and the lights came on. One squeeze for good luck, and we were off.
Sullivan – I grew up at QCT. My mother choreographed and directed shows when I was little, so we would spend a lot of time either playing in the auditorium or the green room with a babysitter. The first show I was in was TALES OF A FOURTH GRADE NOTHING. This show was fun because my mom, brother, and sister were in it! It’s so fun doing shows with family members, and I have been lucky enough to have family involved in every QCT show I’ve done.
Daxton – My mom had a small role in WIND IN THE WILLOWS, and the director, Brandon Thomsen, needed a young boy to play an otter. I was only 4 years old. I’ve been doing theatre ever since!
2. What is your role in/for GHOSTLIGHT?
Jessica – I’m the Assistant Stage Manager. As this is my first time ever being a stage manager for a show, I am so glad to have someone there right beside me to show me the ropes.
Sullivan – My role in GHOSTLIGHT is Amicus, the school’s headmistress.
Daxton – My role in Ghostlight is the character Jackson Nettles, father of the protagonist Garbiela Nettles.
3. What is the most challenging part of GHOSTLIGHT for you?
Jessica – The most challenging part right now is helping to keep track of everyone’s schedule so that rehearsals can run as smoothly as they can.
Daxton – One thing that was challenging for me was having to adjust to a different character. I’m used to playing more silly, supportive characters, but now I have to learn how to be more fatherly and emotional.
4. What is something about the process of volunteering during a show that audiences may not know or realize?
Jessica – It never feels like volunteering. I am always excited to walk through that stage door and leave all of my real-world worries outside. To be able to say that I helped bring any part of this incredible story to life is something that I can be proud of for years to come.
Sullivan – The audience may not know how many volunteers it takes to make a show happen. Not only are all the actors volunteers, but there are also many volunteers who help make and paint the set, sew and hem costumes, usher and scan tickets, and many other things. We also can’t forget all the parents who have to drive their children to every audition, rehearsal, or build day they sign up for, they truly are a big reason the student productions are possible.
Daxton – There are roles or jobs that audiences may think sound simple but are really more complicated than you think. For example, an ensemble member in a musical is on stage more frequently and has a lot more movement than a main character. It is important to blend in so you don’t stick out whenever a simple mistake happens.
5. Tell us about creating the world of GHOSTLIGHT from your or your character’s point of view.
Sullivan – Amicus is the headmistress of Doves Forge Academy, the school where the play takes place. She helps create the world of GHOSTLIGHT because she runs the school. Without giving too much away, Amicus knows that there is something going on but is unaware of what it is. She understands that there are parts of the school that need to be explored, and she knows that there is a reason Garbiella has to go to this school.
Daxton – My character can only see the world from the comfort of his home. He does not know if everything is going smoothly at his daughter’s school, and his daughter is not very helpful in answering his questions.
6. What would you say to encourage someone to get involved at QCT?
Jessica – Take the leap. Whether that means gathering up all of your courage and auditioning for a show, joining the crew backstage, or helping out during a build/paint day. You never know what you are capable of until you try. You might just surprise yourself and learn some new skills along the way.
Sullivan – I would say to just do it! There are several ways to get involved, and no show can happen without volunteers. Becoming involved at QCT is something I will forever be grateful for. I’ve met some of my best friends through the theatre. I love spending time with my family through shows at the theatre, and there are so many nice people who work and volunteer here. So, if you have even one thought about volunteering at QCT, do it. I really don’t think you’ll regret it!
Daxton – I would say that you are more talented than you think you are. Audition or sign up to be a part of crew because it does take a handful of time and work, but it is extremely worth it in the end.