Did you know March 27 is known as World Theatre Day? This is the perfect date to highlight this gem from South Carolina ETV's tape vault. Don't be surprised if you see some faces you recognize.
On this episode of Jobman Caravan, the focus is on careers in theatre. Host Bill Terrell opens up with, "The excitement of opening night, the thrill of an audience's applause, the joy of public recognition, the opportunity for creative self-expression, and the development of one's artistic talent are just a few of the reasons why so many people are attracted to the performing arts."
South Carolina State College Drama student, Phyllis Larrymore states, "First of all, you have to have your mind made up that you want to go into theatre. It just can't be something that you decide at the spur of the moment. It's something that you have to really think about because this is a very competitive field and you have to concentrate a lot on your work that you're taught in class and in theory, and you have to learn how to put it on stage."
Meet Members of the Negro Ensemble Company (NEC)
Jobman Caravan caught up with the actors from the play Home, while they were conducting an acting workshop for the local high school. Carol Lynn Maillard, Sam L. Jackson and L Scott Caldwell, all professional actors with the Negro Ensemble Company, discuss how they became interested in the acting profession.
Carol realized at two years old that she loved to perform. She pursued her passion for performing by exploring singing, acting, dancing, and playing the violin. Her dedication led her to theatre work, including performing with Sweet Honey in the Rock, teaching, and eventually moving to New York, where she built a successful career in the arts.
Sam initially disliked performing, being exposed to it as a child through his aunt’s cultural programs. "And then one night I had a date with a young lady who told me if I wanted to see her, I had to come to a play." After attending that date in college, Sam fell in love with theatre, immediately got involved in acting, and has been dedicated to it ever since.
L. Scott’s love for acting began during her childhood via imaginative role-playing and creating characters. At first she thought she wanted to be a teacher, but later realized it was the act of pretending she loved, leading her to pursue acting full-time after moving to New York.
Beyond Acting
All three NEC actors chose the academic route to acting and encouraged young people to pursue education as a backup for their journey. There are other careers in theatre besides being an actor.
Frank M. Mundy, the drama instructor at SC State College, addresses technical jobs like lighting design, costume design, set design and construction, being the director or stage manager for productions.
Jobman Caravan was a groundbreaking show that educated audiences about career opportunities, job interview techniques and featured popular musical acts each week.
Side Notes
Did you recognize any faces from this episode? Here are some famous actors featured:
- Negro Ensemble Company (NEC)
- L. Scott Caldwell - known for her roles in Lost, Queen Sugar, The Good Doctor, and more.
- Samuel L. Jackson- known for his roles in Pulp Fiction, Star Wars, The Avengers, and more.
- Carol Lynn Maillard - known for her roles in American Playhouse, Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and more
- Meet more of the alumni
- Frank M. Mundy worked as SC State theatre director for 32 years before retiring in 2010. He passed away June 16, 2021
- Learn more about World Theatre Day
