A Sterling Performance Baffles Audience in “Witness”
Editors Note: In support of our outstanding local talents, SBINSIDER interviews another of the leading players in the upcoming production of “Witness for the Prosecution.” This instalment we interview Susan Sterling playing the key role of Christine Heilger.
SBINSIDER: Susan, when did you first become interested in acting, and what was your first role on stage?
I have always loved theatre. I was fortunate enough to live near NYC and my parents took my sisters and me to Broadway musicals. When I got to college, I took classes in dramatic arts and I was hooked. There, I had a few acting and directing opportunities. After college, I was in Carousel in the role of Mrs. Miller. Then, life happened and I used my acting skills in my sales career.
SBINSIDER: How long have you been a part of Community Circle Players (CCP) and what roles have you played?
When I retired, I knew I wanted to get back into theatre. In 2010, I read an article in the Saddlebag notes about auditions, I showed up and was cast as one of the Attorneys in The Case of the Steele Deal. At that time the theatre group was called The PrimeTime Players and run by Susan and Steve Shear. I acted in several PTP plays including The Dining Room and Calendar Girls and was assistant director for several including The 39 Steps. In October of 2016, the Shears moved out of SaddleBrooke and Shawne Cryderman and I co-founded Community Circle Players. Our first production was Eat Drink and be Deadly, a fun murder mystery which was performed as dinner theatre on the floor between the tables. Tim Morsani joined us as CFO and we just kept rolling. Over the past 9 years, we have produced a variety of shows and I have acted, produced or directed in all but one of them. Notable highlights were Don’t Drink the Water, An Evening of One Acts and The Curious Savage. Witness for the Prosecution is our tenth production.
SBINSIDER: What role do you consider your best work thus far, and was there a role that you would like to play again?
That’s like asking about which child is your favorite! I played several different roles in The Dining Room and I adored the play. My role as Chris in Calendar Girls was very fulfilling and was a highlight of …… duplicitous. But I don’t want to reveal too much before people have a chance to see the play.
SBINSIDER : Had you seen the movie or stage play of Witness for the Prosecution, prior to taking on the role?
I remember seeing the movie as a kid and also re-watched it before we began rehearsals. It is a wonderful movie/play with a lot of surprises.
SBINSIDER: What do you look for in a role/script before you to try out for the part?
I look for interesting characters and a relatable story. I also look for scripts that are appropriate for our audience and actors.
SBINSIDER: Have you ever directed? Would you consider doing so?
I was assistant director for three of the PrimeTime Players productions, and I have directed four with CCP including last year’s House of Agatha Mystery.
SBINSIDER: Where did you live before moving to SaddleBrooke?
My dad climbed the corporate ladder , so we moved a lot when I was growing up. I moved to Phoenix in 1979 and have been in Arizona ever since. My husband I had our careers in Phoenix until we moved to SaddleBrooke in 2007.
SBINSIDER: Susan, when you are not engaged in a theatrical extravaganza, in what other other fun things do you indulge?
I’m a golfer with the SBWGA. I love nature and I’m a bird watcher. I volunteer at the HOA1 library and am an avid reader.
SBINSIDER: For those out there who have not yet purchased their tickets, what would say to them?
There are still great seats available, and you don’t want to miss a delicious dinner and a world famous play.
Tickets for this astoundingly good mystery play can be purchased:
Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution
March 29th, March 30th, March 31st, April 2nd, April 3rd, April 4th
MountainView Ballroom
Doors open 5pm with No Host Bar
Show starts promptly at 6pm
$59 per person
