It is not unusual for the cast and crew of a stage production to walk around for the next week or so not quite knowing what to do; the fervent commitment to a show that leads it to overwhelm not only the time of the every-night rehearsals, but every aspect of one’s life, doesn’t just ‘go away’ in the great burst of energy that is the actual performance, because that energy is met by the energetic response of the audience and the fervor is increased, rather than diminished. (At this point, cue Bob Seeger’s “Turn the Page” as background music—perhaps, as performed by Metallica, if you prefer—and you’ll see that this is no original observation.)

Those involved in the production from the stage side ask, “Where do we go from here? What do we do now?”

But, what of those who were involved in a great event like The Wizard of Oz from the audience side? As filling as such an enriching experience is, we have an emptiness, too. We want to see it again! We want to see more!

The Ozark Arts Council is committed to leaving neither side of this equation without assistance! Many more acting and singing opportunities are coming up for actor and audience alike, both from The Theatre Company and from Northark Drama, beginning with the great annual variety show known as “The Theatre Awards.” Yes, do not let the name fool you: while it is great to be recognized by your peers, everyone involved in any aspect of any production knows that performance is its own reward, so this award show follows the grandest of traditions, letting the presentation of awards simply drive more performance! It is an event not only for the performers, but for all of the audiences that desire more.

As we rejoice in the ‘more’ that is coming to us, we do well to remember that in receiving from local artists, there is also much for us to give; everyone can be—and must be—active in keeping the Arts not only alive, but growing in our area. All of us who enjoy The Wizard of Oz and have enjoyed (or, if this was our first play, are looking forward to enjoying) other plays sponsored by the Ozark Arts Council need to reckon ourselves ambassadors for the Arts.

The beginning of that ambassadorship is 'pre-supporting' this coming year's productions by becoming members of the Ozark Arts Council. For as little as $25, one can become an individual member, receiving voice and a vote to exercise your support of the Arts; for $100, your whole family can hold membership, getting two votes at our annual general membership meeting and ten free admissions to OAC events! Other membership levels are available, as well, with other benefits included...but it is not those benefits that we wish to emphasize, but the lasting benefit of being an Arts-rich community, a community of creators and not just consumers. When you support the OAC, you are a part of the creation process, whether you believe you could ever be on stage, etc., or not, and you give the gift of being a creator of societal enrichment both to those on stage and all they touch, and to your fellow supporters of the Arts.

To join the OAC, see our membership page for details on each level of membership, or go directly to our membership application form.