Volunteer Spotlight: Hannah Denckla Komperda
Hannah Denckla Komperda was raised in Quincy and grew up doing shows at QCT. Her most recent shows include INTO THE WOODS (Baker’s Wife), MAMA MIA! (ensemble), and SHE LOVES ME (ensemble). Hannah works as a Massage Therapist, is a mom to two beautiful children, and is married to her wonderful husband, Joseph. In her spare time, she likes to bake, spend time with family and friends, and volunteer at QCT!
Tell us about your history with QCT. I have been involved with QCT since 1991, when my mom was hired as the student theater director. I started acting when I was 5 and have done many shows throughout the years, on and off stage. My dad also worked as the Technical Director for many years. I spent most of my childhood here and have fond memories of sitting in the light booth watching shows and helping my dad with lights, sets, and sound.
What has been one of your most memorable moments working on a QCT show? There have been so many special shows over the years. However, the most recent production I was in, INTO THE WOODS (Baker’s Wife), was probably one of my most memorable ones. It was a dream role for me, and the cast was truly so special. We all meshed so well, and everyone was at their best. From the production team to the cast, it was a wonderful experience, and memories were made.
If you could play any role in any play or musical, what would it be and why? I mean, there are so many, but if I had to choose one, Eliza in HAMILTON would be one at the top of my list. She is such a powerful character with a beautiful story to tell.
You’ve done props for us recently and are gearing up to do props for FOOTLOOSE also. What goes into being a Props Manager? Are there any coveted props you’re needing for FOOTLOOSE? Basically, you have to find all the little things that people use on stage that no one really notices but would notice if they weren’t there! I will get a list of props, then go to the basement to locate what we already have in props. If there are things we don’t have, I need to find where we can get them. That might mean the theatre purchasing it, renting it from a theatre, or making it. I will usually read the script to get a better context of how props will be used. There will be a meeting with the director and the stage manager to discuss what they do and don’t want, and whether there is anything specific they are envisioning. As we get closer to opening, I will sit in on a rehearsal to make sure everything is working and reading well on stage. I also have to put the prop table backstage together, that is where the props live when they are not being used, so when it comes time to use them, the actors know where they are. Everything had a designated spot, and the biggest rule in props is that if it isn’t your prop, don’t touch it. During the run of the show, I don’t have to do much unless something breaks. At the end of the run, I put everything away. For FOOTLOOSE, we’re looking for a 1980s-style boom box. If you have one, let us know!
Having grown up in the theatre, what lessons have you taken with you as an adult? Everyone has a story to tell and a part to play. It has taught me to have confidence in all aspects of life. From public speaking to regular conversations. It has taught me to think on my feet and be flexible.
If QCT could produce any show with an unlimited budget, what would you choose and why? Probably WICKED, it’s just such an amazing show all around, especially visually.
What’s one thing you wish the audience knew about what goes on behind the scenes? How much work and how many people are needed to mount a production. From auditions to strike, there is so much going on, and everyone who helps and volunteers their time is truly invaluable.
Is there any area of volunteering that you haven’t tried yet, but would like to? I think Stage managing would be a fun challenge at some point in the future.
What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering at QCT? Just do it. Everyone here is so welcoming. No matter your strengths, there is always something for you to do. Like I said before, there is so much that goes into putting on a show, and anyone who volunteers is greatly appreciated.