The newly painted MVCC stage will spotlight performers. (Photo by Shawne Cryderman)
Left to right: Frank Calsbeek and his son, Frankie, assist Joey Mendoza (on ladder) with hanging the main curtain. (Photo by Shawne Cryderman)
Andrea Molberg
While nothing has been happening on stage in MountainView because of the virus, a lot has been going on behind the scenes. SaddleBrooke’s theatrical group Community Circle Players (CCP), who are committed to both producing quality entertainment and giving back to the community, recently made significant upgrades to the performance space. MVCC Ballroom now has an updated professional look to please audiences and more user-friendly space for the benefit of all who use the stage.
CCP co-founders Susan Sterling and Shawne Crydermann along with CFO Tim Morsani thought it would be a great time to update the stage without interfering or interrupting the many clubs and groups that utilize the space. With the help (and permission) of SaddleBrooke TWO, they went to work. Help came from Liz Lawson, SaddleBrooke TWO lifestyle and events manager, Pat Carlin, SaddleBrooke TWO food and beverage director, Joey Mendoza, lifestyle support, and Frank Carlsbeek, owner of Old Pueblo Theatrical Solutions.
Gina Gaglianno, owner of Sononan Theatre Works, altered the main curtain to make it less bulky and almost hidden from view when pulled, and new hardware means the curtains can now be opened and closed easily and quietly. Shawne Crydermann was delighted with the results.
“What used to take at least three men and a policeman to maneuver, is now a one person/one finger operation. It’s amazing!” Shawne exclaimed.
Now painted black, the stage area (ceiling, walls, doors, and even electrical sockets) provides a dramatic backdrop for any speaker, dancer, or performer.
CCP’s successful, popular past productions have provided funds to cover most, if not all costs for this and other planned improvements.
“Community is part of our name, and we hope other groups who utilize the stage will reap the benefits,” says Susan Sterling.
As she explains, “CCP audiences have come to expect quality entertainment. CCP’s theatrical productions have been humorous, poignant, and artistically staged. Our actors love to get into costumes, makeup, and character to perform for you. Alas, COVID has put all of that on hold, but we have been working to improve your theatre experience.”
What’s next? Stay tuned!