September 6, 2017

Meet David Soria of GreenMan Theatre in Elmhurst

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to David Soria.

David, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
GreenMan Theatre Troupe is a community theatre based in Elmhurst. We are entering our 14th season of productions. The group started in 2003, when former participants with Elmhurst Children’s Theatre initiated discussions about starting a community theatre in the Elmhurst area. These discussions led to GreenMan Theatre Troupe incorporating in 2004 as an Illinois Not-for-Profit. Later, the theatre would be recognized as a 501(c)3 organization. GreenMan’s first performances were in November 2004.

The group produced two shows during that first season, and expanded programming in the following years to include additional performances, showcases, classes, and outside activities. Currently, the group produces three plays or musicals and one storytelling performance at our space in Elmhurst plus a dinner theatre fundraiser at an area restaurant. The group has also performed outdoors, in a bar, in libraries, and has also collaborated with the Elmhurst Historical Society on several projects.

The group was founded as, and remains, an all volunteer organization. Members and patrons come from all over the Chicago area to see shows, be in productions, work behind the scenes, and help run the organization.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The significant challenges we have faced over the years are not unlike challenges faced by many community theatres: maintaining and growing support in the key areas of funding, facilities, and volunteers.

Funding for our first productions was supported by a generous donor, Our first production was a dinner theatre fundraiser, and we have continued the annual tradition to help us raise sufficient operating revenue for the organization. Although the majority of our expenses are still covered through ticket sales, we always welcome additional financial support from individuals, the community, and corporate support.

Our rehearsals for early productions were conducted in empty warehouse space that was donated for our use by a local company. GreenMan was also able to store extra props and set pieces in the warehouse and construct sets in their large empty dock area.

Currently, we rehearse and perform in rented space at the First United Methodist Church in Elmhurst. We also pay for additional off-site storage space. As we grow, our needs for space and funding grow. We are excited by plans for a future performing arts center in the community.

Since our founding, we have had a working board made up of dedicated individuals (wearing many hats!) to run the organization and make sure each show is ready by opening night. We are always looking for interested individuals who are looking to make a contribution with their time and talent, whether on- or off-stage.

GreenMan Theatre – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
GreenMan is a community theatre. We are organized with a governing board, and our members are all volunteers. We are set up as an Illinois Not-for-Profit and have 501(c)3 status. The organization’s mission has remained the same since our founding:

To provide diverse, quality theatrical entertainment for our audience.

To provide opportunities for personal growth in theatrical arts for our members.

To provide a source of cultural enrichment and pride for our community.

I think that what sets us apart is a willingness to take risks with our programming. We produce a wide variety of plays and musicals for our audience, and we have produced a number of new plays over the years. Our performance space is intimate, and gives actors a great opportunity to hone their craft. Our audiences always comment about the high quality of the work being done, and the immediacy of the theatrical experience.

The theme for GreenMan’s upcoming 14th season is “Fun with Con Men and Scoundrels.” We open in September with the Tony award winning “Urinetown: The Musical.” The show is a funny satire of big business, social irresponsibility, and government bureaucracy. Later in October, we will present our annual storytelling program, “Spooky Stories of the Season,” which is a performance given by members of our storytelling summer program. “Cheers to You, Kid!” opens in February 2018, and is our brand new dinner theatre murder mystery production. The dinner show is presented at Angelo’s Ristorante in Elmhurst. Our season continues with “Monstrous Regiment,” opening in April. Based on a best-selling Terry Pratchett novel, the play originally premiered at Chicago’s Lifeline Theatre. The season concludes with the Pulitzer Prize winning play by David Mamet, “Glengarry Glen Ross.” Mamet’s play centers on a group of small-time, cut-throat real estate salesmen.

In addition to GreenMan’s production schedule, we will be offering classes, including this summer’s storytelling class in August.

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