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Megan Makes Magic Happen
Written By: Jenny King | Issue: 2019/01 - Winter
There are many unsung heroes in our area that make the magic happen. These are people who go unrecognized for what they do to make our lives on The Plateau that much better. Behind the Scenes will introduce you to a few of these folks.
The Highlands Performing Arts Center’s Megan E. Greenlee Potts is a magician of the highest order. Her title as PAC Technical Advisor really doesn’t tell you all that she does, but it’s certainly a start. Potts is responsible for building approval of all technical and production aspects, including the set, lighting, sound, props, pyro, projection, etc., for any group that uses the facility. If it happens at the PAC, Megan is the person Executive Director Mary Adair Trumbly turns to.
Ms. Trumbly explains, “You know most people have a right hand. Megan is my whole right side!”
Megan has a long history in theater. She graduated from Ithaca College with a BFA degree in Technical Theater, Production, and Design, and then went on to make her living as a professional stage manager for years. Later in life, after her son was born, she acted professionally in TV, film, and on stage. She started at The PAC eight years ago when daughter Katy asked to audition for Dr. Ronnie Spilton’s Youth Theater. It was through that introduction that the Performing Arts Center discovered Megan’s background in theater.
“I told my children to never go into theater,” Megan laughs. “You see how well that went.”
Katy is currently a sophomore at her mother’s alma mater. Guess what she’s studying? Yep, theater.
Megan is also the Artistic Director for the PAC Youth Theater Program. The program has classes throughout the school year where they teach technical theater, acting, general theater studies, text analysis, and this year: stage combat. They work with area schools and groups such as the Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau, the Highlands Literacy Council, and the International Friendship Center.
Their most recent production was the musical, “Free to Be You and Me” at the Albert Carlton-Cashiers Community Library, where Megan is employed full time.
The PAC Youth Theater Program also offers internships in technical theater. Participants will work directly with Megan to learn lighting, sound, and what goes on behind the stage. If your child has any interest at all in theater, let them talk with Megan. She is an enthusiastic mentor.
To learn more about the program, please contact the Highlands Performing Arts Center at (828) 526-9047.
