Ward “Hews” to a Surprising Witness

SBINSIDER: Connie Ward, when did you first become interested in acting, and what was your first role on stage?

CW: Believe it or not, I didn’t know I was even interested in acting. However, while living in England, I went along to support a friend to a casting call for “Steel Magnolias.” The Director called me onto the stage, and it was a total “out of body” experience. I was nervous as a cat. I was called back the next day, and when the cast list was posted, I was shocked! I was chosen for the role of M’Lynn (Sally Field in the film).  We were chosen to tour England, and our final performance ended with a national competition. We were thrilled to have swept the awards! 

SBINSIDER: How long have you been a part of Community Circle Players (CCP) and what roles have you played?

CW: I joined the SaddleBrooke theater troupe in 2014, formerly known as Primetime Players, and helped with props for “39 Steps.” In 2017, when Shawne Cryderman and Susan Sterling founded CCP, I had a blast playing Pinkie in “Eat, Drink and Be Deadly.” “Witness for the Prosecution” is my ninth role.

SBINSIDER: What role do you consider your best work thus far, and was there a role that you would like to play again?

CW: A role of a lifetime for me was Ethel P. Savage in CCP‘s 2022 production, “A Curious Savage.“ I felt such a sweet and overwhelmingly powerful connection with my “family“ in the Cloisters (a mental asylum that my real family – my three step-children – had me committed to). BTW, I would be honored to play her again. CCP’s “Calendar Girls,” a true story, was an absolute delight. I played “Reluctant” Ruth, but would be thrilled to portray any of the six female roles.

SBINSIDER: Your character in “Witness,” Mrs. Mayhew, has an extensive amount of lines that require memorization. Is this the most challenging role you have played from that aspect?

CW: It’s close!  Possibly a very close second to Mrs. Savage.

SBINSIDER: Had you seen the movie or stage play of Witness for the Prosecution, prior to taking on the role?

CW: Yes, after I read the script, I was so intrigued, I couldn’t wait to see the film made in 1957, garnering six Academy Award nominations.

SBINSIDER: What do you look for in a role/script before you to try out for the part?

CW: I love a challenge ~ and boy, portraying Mrs. Mayhew is quite that! This is my passion, and I cherish every role!

SBINSIDER: Have you ever directed? Would you consider doing so?

CW: Yes, talk about challenging!  But, oh so rewarding. I directed two of the eight “Evening of One Acts,” starring Patty & Jim Burke and Andrea Molberg in one, and Al Weigel and Liz Houser in the other. Would definitely relish having an opportunity to step into those shoes again!

SBINSIDER: Where did you live before moving to SaddleBrooke?

CW: Hmm…well, suffice it to say, I was an Air Force “brat,” and then worked for the Air Force and DoD, so not enough time or space to list all the places I’ve lived. But some of the highlights were The Philippines, Africa, England and Germany. I finished my career at the Pentagon.

SBINSIDER: Besides acting, what other in what other SaddleBrooke activities do you indulge?

CW: Being a part of CCP is my overriding joy. When we’re not “playing,” Jim and I love to get together with our friends as often as possible. Fitness is another biggie. Hanging out in Lake Tahoe is our idea of paradise.

SBINSIDER: What would you say to those residents who are thinking about purchasing tickets but are undecided?

CW: For a truly memorable experience, you will enjoy a stellar cast, as well as intrigue, suspense, and drama, where the finale will leave you spellbound. You and your friends will be talking about “Witness for the Prosecution” until you can get tickets for the next CCP production. Enjoy not only the show, but a top-notch three-course meal. See you there!

TICKETS: 

For information on dates and times, visit the DVPAC.NET website