When first told by Actor’s Equity that there was no real interest in
theatre in Anaheim, co-founders Mark Torreso and Glenn Kelman rightly
ignored that pronouncement and created the Gallery Theatre. And
though only in its 6th year, The Gallery Theatre has
become one of the preeminent small theatres in Anaheim.
In its modest lifetime, The Gallery has produced over 30 productions
in all theatre genres. Shakespeare, musicals, well-known comedies
and dramas, original shows have all trod upon the boards at the Gallery,
and because not all actors are not in their twenties, a Gallery season
always includes one play for their “Senior Series,” to remind audiences
that theatre is defined not by years, but by talent.
What makes the Gallery Theatre so special to the community is that it
is also a place of learning. Acting, directing, writing, set and light
design, costuming, stage-managing are not skills that anyone is born
with. Acting students of all stripes take classes at The Gallery
and have been given their first chances to perform in front of a real
audience. Budding writers, directors, set designers, and stage
managers have also cut their teeth there.
But perhaps the most exciting aspect of the Gallery Theatre took place
in 2009 when P.A.C.T. – Professional Artists For Community Theatre, was
created with the purpose of supporting the community with educational
and entertainment opportunities for seniors, students, and local
artists. P.A.C.T. gives leaders from the professional arts and
entertainment industry a place where they can give back to the
community and nurture new talent.
So if there’s one thing for sure, passion for the arts, and the
community is alive and well at the Gallery Theatre.
Mark Torreso – Originally from the east coast, Mark attended the High
School for Performing Arts and The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in
NYC. After completing a two year internship at the Circle Repertory
Theater, he became the house director for The Connecticut Acting Ensemble,
directing 30 shows in six seasons.
Mark moved to CA in 1991, performing and directing in numerous venues. In
1995 he won a DramaLogue award for his acting in Marathons.
Currently Mark works as a consultant for Disney Entertainment Productions
as well as teaching, producing, directing, and running the Gallery Theatre.
Glenn Kelman – With a BFA in Acting, Glenn began his professional career with
The Shadow Box Theater in NYC. In CA he has directed dozens of world premier
plays and musicals including, Tight Quarters, Bite!, I
Think I Killed My Wife, Till
Death Or Whatever Do Us Part and In
A Yellow Wood.
Glenn works as a fulltime Show Director with Disney Entertainment Productions –
which he believes is the best job in the world. Of course... if the Gallery
Theater could afford to pay him a salary...well, you never know!
Creating theater inspired by the needs of the community.
www.thegallerytheatre.com
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