What is your name? Rachel Whipple
What is your role on the show? Assistant Stage Manager – Specifically I am a dresser which is really fun since this show is about the dynamics between dressers and performers.
Why should audiences come to see According to the Chorus? Beside the brilliant and beautiful cast, this show tells a raw and vulnerable story about losing loved ones to the AIDS crisis. It’s important to remember this time and learn more about how it affected everyone (not just gay men).
What would you say would be a highlight of working on According to the Chorus? I love all the costume changes and getting to know all the performers so well thought out close encounters.
Many characters in According to the Chorus are grappling with their own personal struggles, some more openly than others. What was a challenge that you overcame? This show impacts me as I too am a survivor of domestic abuse. It was a little startling seeing the actress with her bruised eye makeup for the first time because it reminded me of when I had bruises on my face. Now, I am an advocate for people leaving abusive situations and starting fresh for themselves. I serve on the board for Riseup Society Alberta which is an organization that provides counselling and resources to those who have experienced intimate partner violence.
What was your favourite costume that you’ve ever worn? Walterdale Theatre hosted an event and I got to wear a beautiful pink princess dress! It was so fun.