Eatonia Oasis Players is looking for executive members
By Joan Janzen
It’s been four years since the Eatonia Oasis Players’ (EOP) last drama production, but there’s good news on the horizon because EOS is putting out a call for executive members. They will be holding a meeting in mid-March and are hoping to get a good turnout.
Maryanne Becker said a few members got together to discuss the future of EOS and decided to put out a call for executive members to join a committee. “We’re hoping an executive committee will relieve a lot of the pressures that come with planning a dinner theatre, so the cast/crew can just have fun and perform,” she explained. “Having a separation between planning and performing is really key.”
She stressed that performing is a lot of work, but there’s also marketing, ticket sales, budgets, and dinner theatre preparation to deal with. “We’re hoping to get a clearer picture of who is willing to help get the executive set up and running at our meeting on March 19,” she said.
Past EOP members and performances were always held in high regard, and she has heard people say they would like to see the performances return. EOP also provided funds to meet needs in the community and supported initiatives like the Eaton School Outdoor Classroom. “Right now, we are still making a yearly contribution to our community hall,” Maryanne said. “Our community hall was built for drama.”
Members of EOS are confident the town of Eatonia will be 100 percent supportive of any future endeavours, but they also realize their productions will not be the same as in years past. “We’re throwing around ideas, and we’re excited to see where that takes us,” she said.
They would love to see eleven people join the executive for voting purposes, to brainstorm ideas and to help get the work done. “There are some past performers who have expressed interest in just being a part of the executive. Their knowledge will be crucial,” she said.
As for the performers, Maryanne said, “One great thing about EOP is that it’s always been a mixture of ages and backgrounds.” Not only does Eatonia have veteran performers who are ready to get rolling again, but there are new people in town and young people who have the potential to be a great asset to the club.
“We always hear, ‘I would love to do drama’. Now is your time, people!” Maryanne encouraged.