Jessica LeMasters (also known as “Mouse”) started working with ACT 2 Theatre while we were still a part of the curriculum at Robert C. Byrd High School. That was many years ago, then last year, she agreed to stage manage our production of Reasons To Be Pretty which was directed by one of her former RCBHS classmates, Beau Bowden. and she’s been involved in every production since. Here’s how she describes her experience.
I was in Theatre for all 4 years in high school, I really wasn’t out of my shell too much so I figured I would give it a try. Try to give myself some sort of self esteem that I was lacking and survive high school. I mostly was involved in the Tech aspect of the shows, costumes, building sets and so forth. My first show I auditioned for was Narnia: The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe. I had a blast with that show. I later was in Hansel and Gretel , and The Velveteen Rabbit. I didn’t really have big parts but I was always told, “There are no small parts, only small actors.” I was involved with ACT 2 when it first started while I was a junior in high school.
After graduating from high school I had gotten away from theatre for about 16 yrs. I believe , I got the opportunity to work with ACT 2 again when one of my friends moved back East. I had gotten asked if I would be interested in being the stage manager for his show, Reasons to be Pretty. I of course said yes! So the rest is pretty much history, I was the stage manager for the last 2 shows as well. Now I am being given the opportunity to be in front of the lights instead of being behind the scenes. I am very grateful to be working with such an amazing cast , crew and director. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to widen my creativity and experience!
We’re looking forward to seeing you in the lights this time, Mouse!
Photo of Jessica LeMasters by Laura J. Meese.