Local Theater Legends Shine Both On Stage and Behind the Soundboard
In 2024, theater veterans Wayne Kennedy and John Hauser proved their artistic versatility, captivating audiences on stage while seamlessly transitioning behind the scenes as sound designers. Kennedy, a celebrated figure in Colorado theater for 33 years, started the year with a triumphant reprise of his iconic role as Tevye in “Fiddler on the Roof” at BDT Stage, which closed its doors in January. He ended the year portraying Scrooge in the Candlelight Dinner Playhouse’s holiday musical.
Beyond acting, Kennedy has made a significant impact as a sound designer, notably for the Arvada Center’s groundbreaking production of “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.” Director Lynne Collins praised his extraordinary talent, recognizing him as the "unacknowledged genius" behind its complex sound landscape. His work continued at the Bug Theatre with the world premiere of “The Android’s New Soul,” where his sound design added emotional depth to pivotal moments.
Hauser, similarly talented, recently took on a full-time role as assistant production manager at Miners Alley Playhouse, engaging with both sound and video needs. His sound work has been especially praised in productions like Stephen King’s “Misery” and “A Christmas Carol,” where his innovative designs enhanced the storytelling experience. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, including subwoofers for immersive effects, Hauser’s approach sets a new standard for sound design in theater.
As both Kennedy and Hauser continue to broaden their creative horizons, their dual roles as performers and sound designers underscore the vital contributions they make to the Colorado theater community, captivating audiences both in front and behind the curtain.