[AT WORK]
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Cynthia See >> I've been a company actor for Honolulu Theatre for Youth for over 10 years now. We're Hawaii's only professional theatre company. During my typical workday we're either in rehearsal or performing. A show's run is four to five weeks, two and sometimes three shows a day, six days a week. I love my job because I'm performing for children. Their reactions are so immediate and honest. They'll laugh, boo at villains, scream when they're scared, even try to warn you! Their energy and enthusiasm hits me on stage almost like a physical force. Actor
Cynthia See enjoys connecting with keiki
One shining moment for me was when we were on the statewide tour. We did a show called "Paniolo Spurs" at the Kilohana Rec Center on Molokai, about an orphaned paniolo girl. At one point in the show the cowboys sing a song to the paniolo girl, "Owls' Lullaby." Suddenly the kids in the audience started singing with us. All the actors just teared up. It was an incredible moment. That was the moment I said, "Yes. I'm doing the right thing. I'm connecting with children in my community." There is no better way to serve.
Another thing I love is the variety. I've learned to hula and chant for shows; I've had to stretch vocal abilities and learn accents. In children's theatre you will never be typecast. I can be male or female, or animal or even a tree.
For our current show, "Wondrous Tales of Old Japan," three popular Japanese folk tales are delivered in Kabuki style. So I've had to learn Kabuki movement and speaking styles. The make-up and costumes are gorgeous. I am the first exotic character the audience sees on stage -- an enchanted turtle -- so I always get a reaction. I wear up to three costumes at one time, in order to make the quick scene changes.
We perform during the week for school audiences, and on weekends for the public. I love these family shows, watching parents explain the show to their kids or vice versa!
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