- Hi Renell! What is your role in Altar Boyz? I am one of the Altar Boyz and I play Mark. He is one of the co-founders as well as the “choreographer” of the group. Personality-wise, he’s the sensitive, yet fierce, baby spice of the group. Pumpkin spice if we’re being a little more modern.
- What is your background in theatre? At Walterdale? It all started when my Mom pitted my siblings and myself in a Disney singing contest when I was young. I can recall singing and dancing as early as kindergarten. Vocal training includes classical, jazz, musical theatre, and you can guarantee I can’t resist a good ol’ pop riff to soothe the soul. Dance and movement varies from contemporary, jazz, hip hop, and ballroom. In terms of the Walterdale, this is my first show and it has been an amazing journey.
- Why did you want to be a part of this show? I watched the show in my home town, Winnipeg, MB at the Prairie Theatre Exchange in 2012. The show really blew me away because there were 5 boys wailing to 90’s tribute music and hitting such sharp choreography with intricate formations. At the time, I was only beginning to consider pursuing more theatre training and little did I know it would become the core of my passion for theatre. Personally, I identify very closely to my character, Mark, because I was raised Catholic and I faced some similar struggles as him in the show. I am proud to say that I can cross him off of my bucket list of characters I want to play.
- Why should audiences come see the show? Religious. 90’s. Boyband. What more do you need to know?! Haha, but seriously, we have a pretty amazing cast that has made the characters come alive in a way that exceeded my own personal expectations especially after following the show for so long. Also, our production crew and band have really taken our show to the new heights by supporting us in every way possible. It’s seriously a show that you do NOT want to miss.
- What’s your favourite boy band song and why? I could say a classic BSB or an N’sync song, but I’m going to go with “Get down – B44”. It pays tribute to frosted tips, upbeat pop music, and a whole somethin’ else. If you know it, you know what I mean. If you don’t, you’re missing out!
Click here to have a listen to Get Down by B4-4
Altar Boyz runs December 4-14 with shows at 8 p.m., and a 2 p.m. Sunday matinee. There is no performance on Monday.
Photo Credit: Scott Henderson – Henderson Images