It's not every day that you discover that a highly-talented, nationally-acclaimed actor/director is living right next door. Habersham Community Theater has been enriched with the professional expertise of former broadway performer and director, John Preece. Beginning with epic productions of Fiddler on the Roof (ten national tours and 3,455 performances as either Tevya or Lazar Wolf) and over 40 other popular shows since, John Preece's career has spanned over 40 years, and since returning to his roots, he has directed and consistently delivered amazing shows to the Habersham community.
A graduate of Piedmont College, John moved back to Habersham County following a successful career in theatre in acting and directing. John states, "As a retiree, I was looking for something to give my time and energy to that would make a difference. As fate would have it, I found myself at HCT for one of their main stage shows, and my interest was instantly piqued by the talent I saw on that stage. Shortly thereafter, I was invited by long-time HCT member Alta Moseley to become more involved. I am so glad I said yes, as this has been such a rewarding experience. The opportunity to give back some of what I have learned over the years has been incredibly meaningful."
John directed 5 of the last 6 shows at HCT: Oliver!, Deadly Murder, I Do! I Do!, The Sound of Music, and Amahl and the Night Visitors. We have received many comments from our patrons about the professional theatrical quality these shows have brought to the HCT stage under John's direction.
John's latest work is the current Christmas opera, Amahl and the Night Visitors. This first operatic musical at HCT has been received with rave reviews. Assistant Director Linda Williams stated, "John is a pleasure to work with, as his experience brings such a richness to the whole process. Most of all, I appreciate how he encourages the cast members. I and my children have appeared in several of the shows he has directed, and you can tell that he wants to see us evolve and develop as actors."
Performances of Amahl and the Night Visitors continue on December 12-14 at 7:30 pm and December 15 at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $20 for adults, and $12 for children and students. To purchase or be placed on a waiting list, please call (706) 839-1315 or order online at www.habershamcommunitytheater.com.