What is your name? Patrick Shane Allen
What is your cast role or crew position in Disney’s NEWSIES? Race
What is your favorite Disney’s NEWSIES quote, song or scene — and why? My favorite scene is Act 1 Scene 1. I really enjoy the idea of the whole newsie’s squad coming onto stage one by one.
How many Gibson Southern Theatre productions (including Disney’s NEWSIES) have you been a part of while in high school? 4
What is your favorite role, act, or show that you have been a part of in high school? Pitch Perfect Riff Off, it was the start of my theatrical journey.
Do you have a favorite story from your time spent in theatre? During the ball for Cinderella, Mark Sorg leaned over my shoulder to see Cinderella enter the ball. But one of the metal buttons on his costume popped off, and while we were supposed to be “frozen” on stage, Mark broke character to fetch his button. Right as he started to bend down to pick it up, I stopped him and placed my foot on the button. As soon as the music picked up and we were all unfrozen, I whistled to the stage crew, who saw everything, and kicked the button backwards towards someone on stage crew. Very clean, if I do say so myself.
What are your plans after high school? I plan on pursuing boxing as a career, and going to college.
What words of advice do you have for those thinking about joining Gibson Southern Theatre? When people say that they wish they could go back and do something, they mean it. I too, was scared to join theater. I just felt like it wasn’t for me. After my first time meeting everyone, I realized how wonderful the theater department is. The amount of happiness and joy that is spread amongst everyone is second to none, and it will forever have a place in my heart.
Do you have anything else to add? You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. Don’t let anything stop you from getting out of your comfort zone, especially with theater. There’s a place for everyone in this department.