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Sometimes, when the doors of the Doris Harper-White Community Playhouse are open, the most surprising people stop by, and sometimes those people quickly become members of the Theatrikos family. Last November, Ron Erkman walked through the doors of Theatrikos looking to spend some time volunteering, doing what he loves and what he spent his entire career doing — live theatre.
After spending six years in the U.S. Navy working as a nuclear reactor and satellite technician, Ron moved to New York, and while perusing his degree in engineering, he supported himself by working for a company that produced commercials and eventually music videos for the earliest days of MTV. He also spent time touring with rock bands like Judas Priest and AC/DC as a technician.
After completing his degree at CUNY, Ron went to work for the Metropolitan Opera Company, where he spent the next 23 years, developing computer automated systems for large scale productions and special effects using lasers and pyrotechnics. Ron reflects that one of his most challenging projects was for War and Peace at the Met. "We had a 20 foot deep and 60 foot long hydraulic controlled section of stage that had to go from a flat battlefield to a wall 20 feet tall in about ten seconds." Another production that he remembers fondly was Julie Taymor's production of Magic Flute. He designed and built a wireless, battery operated LED special effects system for the show. "Julie Taymor knows what she wants, and knows what she is looking for."
When asked why he does theatre, his immediate response was, "Because I love it. That is why I do it." He continues, "I love the challenge of it, the creativity that you bring to it." Additionally, ". . . It gives people a way of expressing themselves, and gives audiences an escape, and things to think about."
These days, Ron can be found at Theatrikos, rewiring the building, helping with scenic design, set construction, and a multitude of other jobs. Anytime anyone starts a sentence with, "Do you think we can . . . " the immediate response is, "Um . . . Ron . . . ?" |
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The strength of Theatrikos Theatre Company comes from those who volunteer their time, imagination and creative energy. From set construction to concessions, we are always looking for fun, spirited people to help with every show. Volunteering is a wonderful way to get involved at Theatrikos and join a fun community of theatre enthusiasts. The work of volunteers covers a wide variety of activities, small to large time commitments, and use many talents!
- Ushering & Concessions
- Build & Paint Sets
- Backstage Crew
- Lights & Sound
- Costuming
- Makeup & Hair
- Collecting Props
- Committees
- Board Members
Theatrikos is a volunteer-driven organization and welcomes everyone, regardless of experience. Your participation can make it even better! Contact our Operations Manager & Volunteer Coordinator, J. Gary Walden, at 928-774-1662 or click here to email Gary. |
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