MAKING ART | EPISODE 10: Gail Golden, Executive Director Dramatic Solutions, Actress and Director

Please join The New Phoenix Theatre on the Park as we walk down memory lane. As we continue to plan for next steps with the uncertainty of COVID-19, we are sharing testimonials from the amazing artists who emblazoned their imprint on our stage. We hope with all our hearts to be back with you soon.

For now, here is a message from Gail Golden:

"The first time I went to the NPT was shortly after it opened. Tim White, a managing partner of Dramatic Solutions, let the company have auditions there. I remember how proud and excited Tim was about the new space and what potential he envisioned for it! His dreams came true! (Note: Tim White who passed in 2009 was the former artistic director of Buffalo Ensemble Theatre which shared the space at the New Phoenix).

The thing that most comes to mind when I think about the NPT is the wonderful display of headshots in the lobby - some rescued from Flynn’s Bar. I’m always proud to see my photo up on the wall, and I especially like the tribute (over the door to the lobby) to actors who have passed away including my buddy, Manny Fried and my best buddy of all, Bryan Hayes.

I’ve only done one show at the NPT - Angels Fall with a stellar cast starring Pam Mangus, Mike Randall, and Richard Lambert. I directed the show and we rehearsed during a brutally cold and icy January. We were at a disadvantage for the first couple of weeks of rehearsal because the theatre was being used by another group, so we had to rehearse off property. When it was time to get back into the theatre, we breathed a sigh of relief. It was a difficult show, but now we could finally get to work in our own space. Unfortunately, the plumbing broke and, for the last couple weeks of rehearsal, we didn’t have bathroom access. When the show opened, there was a Johnny-on-the-spot outdoors for the audience but still no bathroom access for the cast. Here’s why I mention this — NO ONE COMPLAINED!

Everyone in the cast carried on in good spirits - very professional and understanding with one goal in mind — let’s work together, as best we can, to put on the best production possible. The actors at the NPT were real troupers - talented, hard working, and darned good sports. It was a pleasure directing this production!"

Gail

Coming soon, Episode 11: Pamela Rose Mangus