Sitting behind a screen, Farrarmere’s Mark Worrell simmers in the stigma of being a software developer.

However, when he logs out and turns to his passion, he transforms into a thespian ready to step into any character.

Born and raised in Kent, England, Mark describes himself as an extrovert who relishes interacting with people and making them laugh.

His life took an unexpected turn in 2014, when he was on carpool duty with the strict instructions to ensure that his daughter, Phoebe, made it to a Protea Stage audition on time.

“I was quite chuffed arriving at the venue with time to spare,” he said with a laugh.

“As I was sitting in the parking area, the late Margaret Todd brazenly walked up to my window, coolly informing me that I would be portraying the judge in her upcoming production.

“No audition and without warning, I was hauled on stage. That fluke encounter at the age of 54 changed my life, and I am eternally grateful for giving me the push I did not know I needed.”

Acting soon became an all-consuming passion with many amateur theatre productions under the Protea Stage banner. Mark’s name was listed as a member of the cast.

After 12 years of performing in the troupe’s limelight, Mark is taking the bold step of establishing Ensemble Stage, his own amateur performance society, the first new local troupe to set foot on stage in 40 years.

“I had a tremendous time with Protea Stage and their productions always leave the audience thoroughly entertained. However, I felt my time had come to take a bow and start a troupe with fresh faces and new ideas,” he said.

“I hope that the new society will lure closet performers out of hiding and encourage them to share their passion and talent with a new generation of theatre goers.

“No previous training is required to join the society; members only need to have oomph and a sprinkling of pizzazz, together we do the rest.”

Mark said saying that amateur theatre is a great way for families and couples to explore their passion or acquire new skills.

“I hope to create a space where people can meet, enjoy shared experiences and most importantly, entertain audiences,” he said.

“In theatre, there is an abundance of opportunities, not just on stage but also behind the scenes. Aspiring light and sound engineers, set, costume and prop designers, playwrights, and directors are more than welcome to hone their skills.

Curtain call

Ensemble Stage will be debuting its rib-tickling Take 5 production, in collaboration with Encore Theatre Productions, Startime Players, Roodepoort Little Theatre and Edenvale Acting & Drama Society on June 19 and 20, at the All Souls Church, Northmead.

The showcase will feature some of the best local talent, who share a passion for performing.

“We are incredibly excited to bring Ensemble Stage to the community and invite Benonians to experience something truly special,” said Mark.

“Audiences can expect an evening filled with laughter, fantastic music, and sterling performances. More than just entertainment, we hope people leave feeling uplifted, inspired, and reminded of the power of local community and live performance.”

For more information and ticket sales, contact Mark on 083 320 4991

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