As the fall theatre season continues to gather its players, there’s still time to explore the frequent phenomenon of married couples from Queens who act, produce, direct and make music. I asked Kevin and Judy Vincent the co-founders of Theatre Time Productions in Whitestone some questions. Let’s see what they had to say.
Why did you decide to create your own theatre company?
For many years before we met, Kevin and I had been performing in shows and often asked "why don’t they do it this way?" or " why didn’t they cast this person?" or "if I were doing this it would be different", so after we met in 1996 we discovered we had a shared vision on how a theater group should be run. So Theatre Time was formed in 1997.
What have been the typical "ups and downs" in producing shows every year?
The downs are fronting the money for our own productions and not having enough help to mount the production. The ups are being able to do what we love to do, providing entertainment to our audience, and mostly forging the many friendships we have formed over the years. We get to meet & interact with some wonderfully creative people.
How many projects have you presented and how do you choose them?
"Rumors" will be our 22nd production. Our criteria are simple: Have a passion for the play we are producing, and have the capacity to do it well.
What are you looking for at auditions?
Actors who are talented, prepared, committed, responsible, and are in it for the love of the craft.
How is being a husband/wife production, direction and performing team been both an asset and a liability?
It has been an asset in the respect that two heads with a shared vision can be very powerful and really get things done. No liability except for the occasional creative difference!
What is your next project?
Neil Simon’s "Rumors" opening Oct. 16th.
What problems or perks have arisen in preparing for your next show?
Sorry that’s classified. (Ask me after the show closes!)
How do you compare your troupe to others in Queens?
We don’t compare, because each group is different with their own strengths, weaknesses, & standards. We are content to be one of the many talented groups out there. We let our work & our shows speak for themselves.
What have been your favorite performances? Why?
Productions are like children, you never want to pick favorites BUT if we had to give some Theatre Time highlights they would be: DRACULA, because the acting & production value was among the best we ever had. 12 ANGRY MEN, a super talented cast that was committed to excellence. BEAU JEST, a great cast, expertly directed. OUR TOWN, the classic we had a great passion for. WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION acted & directed at a very high level.
Any particular thoughts for our readers regarding community theatre?
Yes. Community Theater is important, and supporting community theater is important. We have seen community theater impact lives in so many wonderful ways. It has brought together friends, introduced future husbands & wives, had children, given a creative outlet for those who NEED one, entertained millions across the US, and has shown people that you really can accomplish anything you want, when you have a passion for what you’re doing.
It looks like Kevin and Judy have a clear creative vision. But they generally do drama and comedy, not musicals. I guess there are many ways to bring harmony to our community without playing a note. Thanks, Theatre Time.
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