The Portland Parks Bureau's old Theatre Workshop was an important part of the Wheezer's early years. Most of the Wheezer's anyway. From starting out in the chorus of "Oliver!" in 1969 to Mike Murnin's directing of "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" several years later, our various levels of involvement, especially during our high school years, was a great learning ground for acting, dancing, singing and life in general.
One influential person that directed many of Theatre Workshop's productions was Steve Smith. Steve was also involved with many other local theatre groups at the time, including the old Portland Civic Theatre, where us Wheezer's were also involved with dozen's of productions.
Imagine our surprise when, after 30 years of not seeing a glimpse of theatre guru Steve Smith, he turns up in this local production of The Giver.
Wheezer correct:
Michael Murnin starred as the title role in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, directed by David Tacha. MJM directed The Fantasticks! starring Scott Leverenz as El Gallo and Steve Smith as Henry, and (Oh my God, it's a musical!) Winnie the Pooh starring Steve Lindstedt as Christopher Robin. All three of these productions were directorial internship productions, under the guidance of Steve Smith.
I am glad to see he's still acting. He's really terrific. This production looks good. Hopefully, some wheezers will get to see it, and report back.
Posted by: Michael Murnin | March 11, 2006 at 04:23 AM