It was 24 degrees outside when Lisa Schaer sat down to talk about A Christmas Carol.
"I know, it's the middle of summer and we are planning for Christmas," she said before laughing.
Schaer is a member of Between Shifts Theatre, the volunteer theatre company behind some of Squamish's smash hits - Garry Plotter and the Pantominer's Stone, Darth and Luke's Most Excellent Adventure and The Princess Bride. This fall, Schaer will be in the role of co-producer for the company's upcoming performance of Charles Dickens' classic tale. The play's director, Carla Fuhre, has wanted to take on the English novel for 10 years, Schaer said.
"It is such a traditional story," she said. "We are hoping to have the same response to it as with The Princess Bride."
On Sunday, Aug. 28, from 2 to 4 p.m. and Tuesday, Aug. 30, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Sea to Sky Hotel, Between Shifts Theatre will be holding auditions. All ages are welcome, as well as novices.
"We want to get people who have never thought about going into theatre before," Schaer said. "If you have any interest at all, come out."
There are many positions that need to be filled which aren't in the spotlight. Stagehands, lighting, working at the front of the house are all a part of getting involved in the experience, she said. Overall, Schaer estimates 15 spots will be available.
"There are lots of roles in this one," she said. "There are also lots of small roles."
The play will be held at the Brackendale Art Gallery. It will run from November 24 to the 26 and from December 1 to 3.
People don't need to bring anything other than themselves to the auditions, said Schaer. Callbacks will take place on September 1.
"We have to be in rehearsals by September," she said.
For more information visit www.betweenshiftstheatre.com or call (604) 892-5078.
