Since 2018, Leeanna Shimek has been a steady, behind-the-scenes force helping bring the magic of the Plaza Theatre to life. What started as curiosity and a willingness to help quickly turned into a passion for learning, growing, and saying “yes” to opportunities that felt just outside her comfort zone. From her very first show, Young Frankenstein, Leeanna embraced the spirit of the Plaza by jumping in, trying something new, and discovering just how exciting and rewarding theatre volunteering can be.

How long have you been volunteering at the theatre and what motivated you?

I have been volunteering since 2018. My first show was Young Frankenstein. It was a gem of a show and still one of my favorites. The truth is that my partner Kenneth Socha had been speaking with Burke Wilkins about the helping with the lights at the Plaza and I said that sounds fun and interesting. I would love to volunteer. Well…what I meant was I wanted to make popcorn or show people to their seats etc. When I showed up for the first time, I was told I would be doing projections!! Certainly out of my comfort zone, but all the people at the Plaza were friendly, helpful and patient and it was so exciting.

What roles or tasks do you typically undertake as a volunteer?

I volunteer on the tech side. I have done lights, sound and projections. I have also volunteered as an usher. There are really so many different opportunities to explore at the Plaza. Also, if you start in one role, you can see what other interest you have and grow and learn new things.

What are your most memorable experiences?

I believe that the Young Frankenstein was my most memorable experience because it was my first time doing something I have never done before. Initially, I was going to be backstage with a computer doing the projections, but I ended up sitting in the pit below the stage. I had to climb in and out and no one knew I was even there. I had the best seat in the house. Those songs are still in my head!! It was a blast!

How has volunteering impacted your life?

The Plaza Theater has opened up a whole other part of my life. The joy in working on such wonderful productions and the people we have met are amazing. We have made some lifelong friends along the way. I have learned so much about the technical side, as well as how the productions are put together and what a huge talented group of actors there are in our surrounding area. I wasn’t a theater kid…but I now consider myself a theater person and I couldn’t be more proud to a member of the Plaza theater team.

Advice to someone interested in volunteering:

I think the hardest part is just to reach out. I know I had always thought it would be fun and interesting, but was too scared to do anything about it because I didn’t know anyone involved. The people at the Plaza are welcoming and enjoy new people wanting to join the team. They love to share their passion for theater with everyone.

Leeanna’s story is a perfect reminder that you don’t have to be a “theatre kid” to belong at the Plaza. All it takes is a little curiosity, a willingness to try, and the courage to reach out. Through her time volunteering, she’s gained new skills, lifelong friendships, and a deep appreciation for the art and community that make the Plaza so special. If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a place for you here, Leeanna’s journey says it loud and clear: there is. And the Plaza team would love to welcome you.