By Jordan Chila | Editor in Chief
Photo Provided by Gail Steele
Melissa Gates is a theater enthusiast whose love for the theater has recently pushed her to obtain one of the leading roles in the upcoming production of Steel Magnolias, set to hit the stage on October 4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, and 13th, 2024. She hails from Fitchburg Massachusetts and graduated high school in 2000. Gates also enjoys her work as a paraprofessional in elementary education and spends her leisure time performing in her band, hiking, and attending local shows. Although she arrived at the Mount in the spring of 2024 to begin her academic journey, Gates has been a part of the Theatre at the Mount community since she was a girl.
Her introduction to the world of drama occurred when she was just eight years old, attending the Mount’s Theater Summer Program—and the rest is history. Gates states that after a few summers she “gained confidence” and began auditioning for shows at the Mount, landing her first role in the 1995 production of The Fabulous Fable Factory. “Since then, I have been a part of 25 Mount Productions. Steel Magnolias makes number 26!” said Gates, leaving quite her mark on the Mount’s theatre program. Gates has also performed in productions at the Stratton Playhouse, Turtle Lane Playhouse and Sterling Community Theater.
Gates will take on the role of Annelle in the upcoming production of Steel Magnolias. She is excited to work alongside her five co-stars, whom she describes as “incredibly talented.” Gates insists that it is fun to rehearse for her role as Annelle. “It actually never feels like work. it’s more “play” than anything,” she explained. While rehearsals come with challenges, the supportive crew has been a great help, and director Mark Peterson has created a safe space that allows the cast to truly delve into their characters.
“To sum it all up: we laugh until we cry, and cry until we laugh every time we rehearse!” Gates shared about her experience preparing for the role.
Nerves are common before shows, and Gates is no exception. However, she’s ready to “channel” these nerves into her performance and make it the best she can give. She is excited for her audience to experience her character just as much as she was excited to portray her. “I feel very fortunate to have had this opportunity to portray Annelle, and I hope that audiences will enjoy what I’ve brought to her character!” said Gates. To her, the play is “thought-provoking” and “special,” leaving her in anticipation to see what others think of it.
Although Gates has a passion for theater, she also holds a deep love for music. She is a member of a band called Our So-Called Live Music, with Gates performing locally in the band as both a vocalist and guitarist. They’re a 90’s cover band, which fits right in with the era Gates grew up in. “I grew up in the 80s/90s,” she said. “It was a great time to be alive, before cell phones and social media existed, and the music was top notch!”
Gates joined Mount Wachusett through the MassReconnect program in 2024. She chose this program for the simple fact that it allows students who have not obtained a college degree to attend college for free and gain one. Gates is currently studying to become a teacher and has nothing but praise for the program. “It’s such a wonderful opportunity for folks like me,” she said. “My goal is to become a music and drama teacher one day.”
The upcoming production of Steel Magnolias is sure to be memorable, not only for the audience but for Gates as well. She has continued to excel in her artistic world, both on and off the stage.
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