It was great to see a positive letter to The Courier-Herald’s editor from Jody Horn explaining how much she enjoyed the Enumclaw High School’s production of “Peter Pan.” I’m often surprised how few people write about their appreciation for the hard work and talent that goes into a staged theater performance. It’s a huge process and effort. Whether a high school or a community theater production, it starts with a story that intrigues and captures the imagination. The story unfolds in literature, live theater or even on the big screen involving hundreds of people in the process, touching thousands of lives as a result of one person’s imagination.

Reading an article by Chaz Holmes about ManeStage Theater’s production of “Treasure Island” at Sumner’s Performing Arts Center and the family influence behind the scenes was wonderful. A majority of community theater groups are powered and driven by families wishing to participate in the performing arts.

During the run of “Annie,” audience members would see a brother and sister on stage, a mother and daughter, two fathers and their daughters, two sets of sisters, classmates and coworkers acting side by side. Great friendships are formed by the end of the last performance and it’s hard to see a show’s run come to a close. It’s difficult to say goodbye to “family,” but that theatrical bond will remain.

Joan Bolen, who resides between Buckley and Bonney Lake, is aware of the time and effort it takes to establish a community theater group.

Joan was born and raised in Athens, Ohio, where she studied drama in high school and college. While living in California Joan wrote two plays which were well received. In 1988 Boeing enticed Joan and her husband to move to Washington. Joan continued to follow her passion for the performing arts by being a volunteer promoting art in Bonney Lake. She no longer acts, but teaches, instructs and produces. Her children acted in college and also professionally in Hollywood, Calif. It is indeed a family affair.

She is currently writing a book titled, “So You Want to Start a Community Theater.” Joan would like to interest more people in the Buckley, Lake Tapps and Bonney Lake areas to join the Lake Tapps Area Community Theater that she established.

“The most difficult thing in starting a new theater group is finding the people willing to work behind the scenes,” Joan said. She would love to bring wholesome, community entertainment to the Lake Tapps area in the venue of community theater.

If you are interested in talking to Joan about Lake Tapps Area Community Theater, give her a call at 253-447-4005.

She’d love to hear from you.