Volunteer Spotlight: Cory Combs
Meet our March Volunteer Spotlight, Cory Combs. Cory is an insurance agent from Hannibal, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to the QCT stage after a 15-year absence! Cory has performed in area shows such as ONCE UPON A MATTRESS (Dauntless), FOREVER PLAID (Jinx), and ONLY AN ORPHAN GIRL (The Villain). When Cory isn’t singing or on the stage, you can find him spending time with his wife, Mary, and daughters, Cailee and Clara.
You’re coming back to QCT after a hiatus. What was your last production, and what brought you back to audition for COME FROM AWAY?
My last production with QCT was FOREVER PLAID back in 2010. After that, life, career, and timing just got in the way. This show brought me back. I simply love COME FROM AWAY. Not only is it an opportunity to be part of a true ensemble cast, but the show is just the story I wanted to tell. It’s a story of hope. And it’s a story of people helping other people, no matter who or what.
What has been your most memorable moment working on a QCT show?
Even though I’ve made some great memories in COME FROM AWAY already, I’d have to say my most memorable moment at QCT was flying for FOREVER PLAID. At the end of the show, when the Plaids finish their show, our director really wanted us to fly upward. I was not thrilled with the idea, as a bigger person. But was assured it was just straight up, hang for a couple of minutes, then straight back down. So, I did it! I got through it! And I have no interest in doing it again!
If you could play any role in any play or musical, what would it be and why?
I would love to play Marcellus in THE MUSIC MAN. It’s one of my favorite shows and one of the first shows I was involved with at Hannibal Community Theatre, way back when I was in Middle School. At the time, my dad played the part of Marcellus, and I think it would be fun to play the same part he played.
What’s one thing you wish the audience knew about what goes on behind the scenes?
The practice doesn’t stop at rehearsals! Cast members and directors are constantly working on music, lines, blocking, accents, etc., during our “outside” lives. We have been inundating our families and friends with new accents and music since day one (some of us, a little before).
What does a typical rehearsal process look like, and what’s the most challenging part of preparing for a role as a volunteer with other people who also have busy lives and day jobs?
A typical rehearsal at this point starts with a bit of a warmup (some breathing exercises and movement), then we get down to blocking and choreography. The most challenging part of working in this cast while leading a “regular” life is time management. When you practice from 6-10 pm every weeknight and have to find time to study lines, music, blocking, etc., on your own, it takes some rearrangement of your life and calendar. I’m thankful for the people around me, especially my wife and daughters, who helped ensure that I could make the changes necessary to be in this show.
Is there any area of volunteering that you haven’t tried yet, but would like to?
At some point, I may like to try my hand at positions like assistant director, assistant music director, or sound and light booth. But for the most part, I like to be on stage!
For someone who has never volunteered with QCT before, what would you say to convince them to get involved?
No matter what you do here at QCT, how long you’ve been involved, or even how long you’ve been away, you become part of the family. And it’s a wonderful family to be a part of!