LAUREN VANDERVOOT

What is one of your favourite OKTC memories? 
All my most favourite OKTC memories come from summers spent at camp: performance days, talent shows, lost & found skits, Aliens at Spencer, paint-your-counsellor days, Wednesday night staff meetings at the Hillier’s, dressy-uppys, camp dances, and of course – flagpole. There really is no place like camp. A close second is spending time at the theatre with my mom, Peggy. She was the Head of Props for many years that I was in OKTC’s Main Company, and it was really special to share those experiences with her.


How did OKTC impact you to where you are today?
My love for the arts – and specifically for theatre - definitely started at OKTC Summer camp back in the mid 90’s. That passion kept me involved in theatre throughout my high school years, when our drama teacher Ms. MacMillan first brought us to the Tarragon to see plays. Truly, I feel like I was destined to end up here!

Career Field: Arts Administration 
Favourite OKTC Show: That is SUCH a tough question! Some really special experiences I remember: Once on this Island (the K.C. Cann version), Smokey Joe’s Café, Jesus Christ Superstar, 13 the Musical.

Current Job and Employer:
I am the Director of Marketing & Communications for Tarragon Theatre in Toronto. Tarragon is one of Canada’s longest-running and best-known theatres for modern playwriting. In my job, I’m responsible for all our advertising, promotions, publicity, design, and patron communications (including social media & website). Simply put, it’s my job to make sure people know about Tarragon, and sell them a ticket.

What lessons did you take from OKTC that you feel are still applied in your daily occupation? 
In my role, it’s very important that I have a strong understanding of the art form and the ‘behind the scenes’ work of the theatre, as well as the different business aspects of marketing. Even though I’m no longer on stage or in the rehearsal hall, I still spend a lot of time thinking and talking about theatre and playmaking, and I definitely learned that at OKTC.

An OKTC show story: 
After spending 12 years together performing as members of OKTC (starting with Art Fidler’s Frosty Follies back in 98!), and many summers at camp, it was really special to come back and work on 13 the Musical with my pal Andrew Tribe. Many of the HUGELY talented cast members were our campers from way back when, and the show was all about growing up and finding your voice. It was a great way to sign-off my time at OKTC before moving to the big city.

"It would be difficult, if not impossible, to separate the person I am today from the time I spent at Original Kids: as a camper, counsellor, vocal coach, actor, stage manager, and director. Thank you for letting me be a part of this anniversary year!"-Lauren Vandervoot