As Beverly Whitlatch was going through the daily newspaper ads, she had no idea that her discovery would be the beginning of her daughter’s acting career.
Although freshman Kaelei Whitlatch has been involved in church plays that have received good responses, the ad for “Camp Curtain Call” at Geyer Performing Arts Theater in Scottdale gave Whitlatch a different kind of experience.
“Because I had background it was nice to get to be on stage with people who were in productions before,” said Whitlatch. “I like (playing) a person other than myself. It’s so much fun not being me. I know that sounds weird to say, but I’m entertaining people, and I just think that’s cool to do.”
The camp is two weeks long and produces “one big show at the end.”
“She is diligent, passionate, and personable. She brings great ideas to each project, takes direction easily, and works well with her peers,” said Kat Post, director at Geyer Theater. “Her professional attitude on and off the stage sets an example for those around her, and her community spirit is almost tangible.”
Whitlatch’s most recent performance was in ‘The King and I” where she played the role of an Asian woman. Although she enjoyed this role she said she is moving on to her next adventure. Whitlatch has recently been accepted to play the role of Mrs. Millennium in the production “Urinetown.” The story-line consists of a drought occurring in a small town that causes residents to have to pay to use the bathroom. The play goes through the conflicts that a poor family faces when they get angry with “the system” to go throughout their everyday lives.
“My part is not a lead role, but I’m still thankful to have a part since many talented people didn’t even get a role,” said Whitlatch. “I’m honored to be in this cast.”
Whitlatch’s interest for the arts extends down to her sister.
“I enjoyed being on stage with my sister. I feel a lot more comfortable having her on stage with me,” said Abby Whitlatch. “Knowing she’s there gives me more confidence and is a great chance for us to bond. My sister is such a strong person, and that really inspires me.”
Although Whitlatch has had her moments in the spotlight she’s also had her embarrassing moments. Whitlatch explains that during “The King and I” her “big poofy skirt” came up over her head when she bowed down to the King. But that mishap didn’t bother Whitlatch so much.
“This is theater, and I can do what I want.”
Show dates for “Urinetown” are Feb. 18-21.

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Bailey Geehring

I am a senior and a second year editor for the Tam O'Shanter. I will attend California University of Pennsylvania in the fall to pursue a career as a Speech-Language Pathologist.
"Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud"- Maya Angelou

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