By Elizabeth Mandel

What drew you into volunteering with SVCT ? When I discovered that my daughter , Lili , shared my love for singing and the stage , we found SVCT . I appreciate SVCT ’ s family support and the chance to nurture my own passion for theater .

What appeals to you about producing a show ? My ability to prioritize needs , manage multiple projects , meet deadlines and lead a team , all learned from our family manufacturing business , are skills needed by a producer . I enjoy the challenge , and watching the magic happen as a show comes together is an awe-inspiring experience .

Why Kinky Boots ? When SVCT ’ s Play Reading committee proposed Kinky Boots , I immediately knew I wanted to be part of it . I fell in love with the music , the story , and the idea of bringing a show about acceptance to Morgan Hill . It ’ s a fun show , with amazing music and a heartwarming message . And the boots ! Who wouldn ’ t want to produce this fabulous show ?

Are you planning any unique activities around the production of Kinky Boots ? Kinky Boots has given SVCT the opportunity to plan some unique events following selected performances . These include a history of drag , an aftershow panel with the LGBTQ Youth Alliance , and a “ talk back ” with the cast and crew answering audience questions about the production .

What about this production of Kinky Boots are you most proud of ? Why should people come see it ? Our cast and crew are working passionately to convey the positive relationships that this show highlights : between the LGBTQ community and its allies , between father and son , and love and friendships . In addition , the story of trying to keep a business afloat during hard economic times hits close to home for many , especially post COVID . Beyond all of this , with music by Cyndi Lauper , this show is just plain fun .

Kinky Boots is at the Morgan Hill Playhouse through July 20 . Tickets at https :// www . svct . org / 2024 _ kinky .

Why did you want to be President of SVCT ? What do you hope to accomplish ? I have always been a lover of theater , but life led me in the direction of business , where I learned that as a woman , and particularly as a woman of color , I needed to push my way to a seat at the table . Theater was also a place where I rarely saw people who looked like me . However , I ’ m now seeing a wonderful shift in theater ; diversity , inclusion , and acceptance are becoming the norm . When I was asked to take my business know-how and love for theater and become president , I had to say “ Yes ,” not only for myself and SVCT , but for little girls who need to see someone who looks like them involved in theater .

My goal for SVCT , as president , is to see this phenomenal theater company , that has survived recessions and then a global pandemic over the past 50 + years , grow in its commitment to youth and community . This past season we produced a teen-led show , and this summer we are holding our first ever summer camp . I want to facilitate school programming for children who are interested in the performing arts . I want to continue to bring the high quality theater to South County that SVCT is known for . Funding is a continual challenge , and SVCT needs the support of our community to survive . We welcome everyone to come and experience the magic of theater .

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