This quarter, the Perry theatre company welcomes new substitute theatre teacher, Pamala Klein into their trope just in time for The Lighting Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. 

Saydria Ostler: Why did you decide to come to Perry?

Pamela Klein: I had taught Theatre classes at another high school in Chandler earlier this school year. Jenny Farcus, the CUSD Sub Coordinator knew this, and called me to ask if I would be interested in a long term sub position, here at Perry, teaching Theatre. I have a love of theatre, so of course, I said, “Yes!”

SO: What was it like coming to a theatre company so close to the show?

PK: I was actually excited to help with the show. As I said before, I love theatre!
SO: What is your experience with theatre?
PK: My introduction to the theatre was in elementary school. I played the lead in a satire of “Gone With the Wind,” and I loved it. I went on to do shows in junior high and high school, as well as many community theatre productions. I have also work professionally in the theatre and studied theater in college.
SO: What is your favorite play/musical, and why?
PK: Hmm, that’s a hard one. I love all theatre, including musicals. My favorite play is Ghosts by Hawthorne. As for musicals there are a lot to pick from! If I had to pick just one, I’d have to say “Aesop’s Fables,” which is a show I helped write when I was in 8th grade. We wrote the dialogue and lyrics. Our teacher wrote the music. We performed the show in school and then 5 years later our teacher brought it to a small theater in NYC that he was working at. It was a really fun show!
SO: What do you hope to contribute to the Perry Theatre Company?
PK: I want to help in any way that I can! I have worked in theatre for so long, I have had almost every possible position. I have acted, directed, designed sets, built sets, done stage lighting, stage make-up, costumes, been Stage Manager, House Manager, sold concessions, etc. I hope that I can help teach our Theatre students about all of these areas and more!
SO: What is your favorite part about work in theatre? At Perry?
PK: I love the variety. Every production is different and I am always learning new ways to do things. I love the people in theatre, especially here at Perry!
SO: What is your favorite quote and why?
PK: “And though she be but little, she is fierce!” by William Shakespeare, because it fits me! At only 5 feet tall, I am definitely little, but I never let that stop me from doing things I want to do.

With the end of the year just around the corner, there may not be as much time for Klein to leave her mark on the school, but as the ‘21-22 school year blends into the ‘22-23 school year, there will be time for Klein to make an impact in the community.