A Conversation with Courtney on Community Theatre:
We had SO much to talk about, we had to break this podcast episode into TWO Parts! SOO fun!
Check out Part 1 and 2 below:
PART 1 OF 2:
Short gals unite…one who knows a thing or two about theatre😉…and one who knows nothing! 😆
Regardless of how much you know about theatre, you will enjoy watching and listening to this amusing PART ONE of this two-part podcast episode featuring Courtney Wisely, community leader and founder of Spotlight Community Theater.
In addition to explaining some basics about plays vs. musical productions, Courtney opens up with her vulnerable story of why she started Spotlight Community Theatre in Festus, Missouri and how far she has come. Her vision and follow through is beyond impressive!
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Courtney Wisely, the founder of Spotlight Community Theatre. They discuss the importance of community theater, Courtney’s journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a theater visionary, and the impact of Spotlight Community Theatre on the local community. The conversation highlights the transformative power of theater, the challenges of starting a community theater, and the growth of Spotlight Community Theatre in Festus, Missouri.
IttyBitty, Inspiring Takeaways
- Theater can be a transformative experience for individuals.
- Community theater fills a vital role in local culture.
- Spotlight Community Theater aims to provide opportunities for all.
- The journey of starting a theater is filled with challenges.
- Theater can create a sense of family and belonging.
- Engagement in the arts can change lives for the better.
- Spotlight Community Theatre has grown significantly since its inception.
- Theater productions involve many behind-the-scenes efforts.
Quotable Sound Bite
“We are the Muny of Jefferson County.”
Shout out to Ray Halbrook with Live Stream STL + Michelle Ganey with Festus Middle School who were mentioned in this episode.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:07 Meet Courtney Wisely: A Community Theater Visionary
03:49 Spotlight Community Theater: The Journey Begins
07:27 The Transformative Power of Theater
10:14 Building a Community Theater in Festus
12:52 Spotlight’s Growth and Community Impact
❤️🎭🎶The Power of Community Theater, Continuing the Conversation with Courtney Wisely – PART 2 OF 2:
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode of MyFESTUS.com Conversations, host Sara speaks with Courtney Wisely, the founder of Spotlight Community Theatre. They discuss the journey of establishing the theater during the pandemic, the overwhelming community response, and the diverse age range of participants involved in productions.
Courtney shares insights on the growth of the theater, the importance of community engagement, and the various ways individuals can support and participate in the theatre’s mission. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt reflection on the essence of community and the connections formed through the arts.
Itty-Bitty, Inspiring Takeaways
- Courtney Wisely founded Spotlight Community Theater during the pandemic.
- The initial meeting attracted nearly 100 people, exceeding expectations.
- The theater welcomes participants from ages four to 92.
- Spotlight Community Theater produced four shows in its first year.
- The theater has grown to include eight shows in the upcoming 2025 season.
- Community engagement is crucial for the theatre’s success.
- There are numerous ways for individuals to get involved, both on and off stage.
- Membership offers perks like VIP seating and early access to tickets.
- The theatre fosters a sense of family and belonging among participants.
- Community means having support and love from those around you.
Quotable Sound Bites
“We had to call the fire marshal almost.”
“We had 140 people show up to audition.”
“We sold out every show. It was insane.”
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to MyFESTUS.com Conversations
01:07 Meet Courtney Wisely: A Community Theater Visionary
03:22 The Birth of Spotlight Community Theater
06:11 Community Engagement and Theater Participation
08:27 The Growth of Spotlight Community Theater
11:15 Expanding the Theater Season
13:54 Getting Involved: Community Support and Membership
18:09 The Essence of Community
For more information about this incredible nonprofit organization + upcoming shows, check out:
Spotlight Community Theatre: Creating Magic, One Show at a Time!
🎭Thank you for SHARING this to CONNECT more people to transform as we all SUPPORT a community rich with culture.🎭
