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Volunteer Spotlight: Michael Clarkston
As stage manager of the Broadway phenomenon Jersey Boys and one of BC/EFA’s most cherished “techies,”Michael Clarkston has gone a long way in a short time to give words like “stability,” “reliability” and “consistency” a good name. Sense and Sensitivity Growing up in Belleville, Illinois, outside of St. Louis, Michael was cast as the lead in a play called Cosmic Pinball while in the 6th grade. But, it was a few years later, when he was drafted as stage manager for a production of Guys and Dolls that the theatre bug bit hard. “It stuck,” he says, adding, “I always felt I was more of that business/bookend type of person – that this was my calling” On a full scholarship, Michael entered Southern Illinois University (Edwardsville), earning a degree in Design Technical Theatre with a minor in music. There he achieved the distinction of being the first freshmen in the school’s history to stage manage a main stage production (A Doll’s House). His summers were spent in stock at the Muny in St. Louis where he earned his equity card. After graduation, Michael trekked out to LA where he landed at The Lion King after only three months. As the assistant stage manager, he participated in collections for BC/EFA during the Gypsy of the Year appeals period, and then became coordinator for the campaign when the show went on the road. “While on tour I had lost a couple of dear friends and colleagues to AIDS and knew I wanted to get more involved with the community and Broadway Cares.” In 2003, Michael signed up with the original company of White Christmas in San Francisco. When the showclosed, he made his way to New York, landing with a roommate in Hells’ Kitchen where he still resides. While he had few connections on Broadway, Michael nonetheless set about diligently subbing wherever he could. “You see three or four performances of the show and learn the deck (stage),” he says, “then you’re on stand-by.” Subbing brought him day-work on shows like Avenue Q, Hairspray and Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang before his number came in thanks to four guys from the other side of the Hudson. One of the Boys In August 2005, when Richard Hester (Production Stage Manager) rang up to offer the stage manager job on a new show called Jersey Boys, Michael says he wasn’t entirely familiar with the property. “I realize, having worked on the project, that I am more of a Frankie Valli/Four Seasons fan than I (originally) thought,” he admits, after hearing a number of songs he always loved and realizing who the performers were that made them hits. Calling eight performances of Jersey Boys a week leaves little time for extracurriculars, although he always avails himself whenever our organization calls. “Michael represents the best of the young Broadway stage managers who bring such enthusiasm, energy and expertise to BC/EFA. In the last year alone, he has volunteered for almost every one of our events!” says BC/EFA Producing Director Michael Graziano. Broadway Bares is a Clarkston favorite (“Who doesn’t like a good strip show?”), but he has also contributed mightily to Easter Bonnet, Flea Market and the ABC Daytime events, where he will once again be stage managing at the 3rd annual extravaganza on February 25th at Town Hall. “Broadway Cares is a wonderful organization (which) helps thousands of people in need. I am constantly amazed with the quality of the productions and the extraordinary help and generosity of our community,” Michael says, eloquently summing up the factors that motivate him to volunteer. It’s harder, however, to get the discrete stage manager to come across with any gaffes, faux-pas or backstage personal intrigue connected with the shows he’s worked on. Instead, he claims exhaustion. “I just got done calling a matinee,” he laughs, “My brain is fried!” Do you know how difficult it is to call Jersey Boys?” Good point, Michael: most of us wouldn’t have a clue. But on behalf of the staff and supporters of Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, we’re certainly glad you do!
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