#BehindtheCurtain: Get to Know Shirley Johnston
We are thrilled to introduce Shirley Johnston, our incredible Stage Manager for our production of “Anything Goes”! Even before stage managing, Shirley was an invaluable part of the SDMT working as SDMT’s Academy Manager and also teaching various dance classes with us. She took on the role of Stage Manager midway through our 2022 season, and we’re so grateful for all the work she’s done. She brings a plethora of knowledge with her from years of performing on stage to help our productions shine! On this historic day of recognizing the work and importance of stage managers everywhere, we’re thrilled to highlight Shirley! Keep reading below to get to know this amazingly talented individual before you get to see the work she helped put together in action on the SDMT Stage!
What inspired you to get into musical theatre?
Growing up watching movie musicals on TV like The Sound of Music and White Christmas definitely had the biggest impact on getting me into musical theatre!
How long have you been stage managing, and what’s the hardest part about your role?
I got into stage management 13 years ago and became a production stage manager while living in New York. When I moved back to San Diego, I focused on my acting career. It’s been 10 years since I last stage managed.
Does the show “Anything Goes” have any special meaning to you?
Anything Goes has a very special place in my heart. I had the opportunity to play Bonnie (who is now Erma) opposite my long time mentor, Jack Montgomery, as Moonface Martin. I learned so much from Jack about comic timing and he’s the reason I got into stage management in the first place. He saw the potential in me and offered me a job as Assistant Stage Manager on the next show.
What’s your favorite scene in the show?
My favorite scene in this production is the scene between Evelyn and Reno when Evelyn sings “Gypsy in Me”. I love watching Allison and Zane’s comedic choices they make every night. They’re both brilliant!
If you were on a cruise, who’s the one celebrity you’d want to see and talk with on board?
BEYONCÉ!!
Who is your Broadway idol?
I would definitely have to say Rita Moreno.
What is your dream role?
Elphaba in “Wicked”!
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I’m a sap. I cry at the drop of a hat over anything that touches my heart and soul. Movies about animals, children performing their hearts and souls out on stage, seeing an elderly couple still so in love after years of marriage. I cry like a baby.
“Anything Goes” Creative Team:
Director: Omri Schein
Choreographer: Xavier J. Bush
Music Director: Van Angelo
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