Theatre Company Finds New Home at Fairhaven’s Shepherd Center

When we last spoke with Bryon Knight, the founder and managing director of the Shepherd Center for the Performing Arts in Fairhaven, he stated he was looking for a way to bring a theatre company into the fold at the Shepherd Center.

Shepherd Center Finds Its Theatre Company

Knight's search has ended with success. He stopped by Townsquare Sunday to announce a theatre company would soon set up residence at "The Shep." Joining Knight were the founders of the WatermelonAlligator Theatre Company, Garrett Olson and Jess Wilson.

Who Is WatermelonAlligator Theatre Company?

WatermelonAlligator was formed in 2009, and according to a press release, is made up of theatre professionals and dedicated amateurs committed to creating quality theatre in local settings.

Knight said he had been looking for a theatre company for a while, and WatermelonAlligator seems to be the perfect match. "These guys are wonderful. They've got the experience, the professionalism, and they're so willing to work with us," he said.

From Touring Nationwide to a Fairhaven Home

WatermelonAlligator has performed in 27 states over the past three years, and Acushnet native Wilson said the theatre company was looking for a more permanent home.

"I checked in with some friends and connections, and learned about the Shepherd Center," she said. "It seemed like a great fit."

"We're sort of like a theatre in a box. We do a little bit of everything," Wilson said. "We have performed in warehouses, churches, big halls and major theatres, but we're really excited to have a permanent home base."

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Olson said in addition to performing, the theatre company is also capable of teaching the art of theatre.

"Jess and I both have experience as directors, behind the scenes with lights and sound. We have also worked in film as well as theatre with regard to stunt and fight work, and intimacy coordination," he said. "We have taught classes and workshops to adults, teens and children, and people with learning disabilities."

Knight said he hopes the arrangement "lasts forever."

How to Meet the Theatre Company in Fairhaven

The public is invited to meet members of the WatermelonAlligator Theatre Company on Friday, March 27 at 7 p.m. at the Shepherd Center for the Performing Arts.

If you would like your non-profit organization featured on Townsquare Sunday, please email the host at jim.phillips@townsquaremedia.com.