Becky returns to The Growing Stage having stage managed last season’s world premiere new play, GEORGIA MAE UNPLUGS AMERICA. We recently sat down with her to talk about being a part of The Growing Stage’s World Premiere new play, MADDIE & ELEANOR!
Tell us a little bit about yourself. My name is Becky Nitka and I have been performing at The Growing Stage since the third grade. I recently received my Masters in Communication Sciences and Disorders and look forward to becoming a full-time speech-language pathologist.
Tell us about your role in Maddie & Eleanor. I am the stage manager. I run the sound board and make sure the show runs smoothly.
Were you a fan of Eleanor Roosevelt prior to this production? I was aware of Eleanor from past history classes, but I don’t recall ever taking a deep dive into her world. This play is teaching me a lot more about her. First Ladies prior usually were just there to be supportive to their husbands, but Eleanor was a strong lady. She was intelligent and took more charge in her role. Her impact was felt all over the country and that’s why she became to famous, even to this day.
What can audiences expect from seeing Maddie & Eleanor? Audiences should expect to see how a young girl and first lady from very different times can learn from each other- some lessons are timeless.
Do you have a favorite first lady? If so, who and why?
When I was little, I had a recording of Barbara Bush reading a book called “A New Coat for Anna.” She promoted childhood literacy during her husband’s presidency. The Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation still exists today!
What’s it like getting to work with this team at TGS? I’m so happy to be working on a new play here at The Growing Stage. The cast and other crew members are so much fun- we share a lot of laughs during rehearsals.
Fill in the blank: Maddie & Eleanor is…
INSPIRING!
Come check out the final two performances of MADDIE & ELEANOR, February 10th and 11th!
About Maddie & Eleanor:
When Maddie Leonard returns home after her first day in fourth grade, she is fed up with school-yard bullies and flaky ex-best friends. As she turns to her beloved iPhone for solace, she gets an unexpected surprise with a magical visit by Eleanor Roosevelt. As Maddie and Eleanor navigate their budding relationship through old and modern technologies, they inspire each other, laugh with one another, and discover a universal truth: friendship transcends everything.
