Volunteer Of The Month: Mary Burrall

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Mary Burrall Gives Her Creativity To CHS Theater Department


By Hayley Gable
When Mary Burrall’s daughter began participating in Chesapeake High School theater productions three years ago, she knew from the start she wanted to lend a helpful hand. Using her creative talents and craftiness, Burrall pitched in by designing and creating stage props, building sets, shopping for and assisting with decorations, and providing stage hair and makeup support.

“Whatever they need me to do, I’m on it,” she said with a smile.
Even though her daughter has since graduated, Burrall remains an active volunteer. The Rock Creek Park resident, who has three children – Sarah, who graduated last year, Steven, 13, and Emmalie, 11, – has assisted with a number of the school’s theatre productions over the last several years, including “A Christmas Carol,” “Greece,” “It’s A Wonderful Life,” “Guys And Dolls,” “Cinderella,” and most recently, “The Music Man.”
Although she affirms that every production was special in unique ways, her favorite thus far has been “A Christmas Carol.”
“We had several different sets that were so much fun to make. We built beautiful tables filled with a complete feast of food, and even baked a full turkey and ham for the final touch,” she said. “It was fabulous.”
Burrall credits Chesapeake’s Theater Director Karen Simmons and Stage Director Tim Simmons with promoting such a positive atmosphere for both the students and the volunteers.
“The entire production staff is just a joy to work with, and they are so wonderful with the kids,” she added. “They really don’t get enough praise for what they do.”
Karen Simmons, Chesapeake’s Theater Director, is grateful for Burrall’s eagerness and passion.
“She does a fabulous job of dressing our sets and involving the student members of our stage crew in bringing creative ideas to life. Mary spends many hours painting, creating set pieces, and shopping for the best values,” said Simmons. “We are very fortunate to have Mary as a member of our drama department and as a role model for our students. Her enthusiasm and bubbly personality are contagious.”
Burrall considers it a privilege to be able to watch the students blossom into talented actors and actresses. “It’s a mom thing, I guess. It’s nice to be able to witness the whole transition from a slightly awkward, gawky student to this stage superstar, I love watching it all unfold,” she confessed.
Last year’s production of “Greece” stood out especially to Burrall, as it was her daughter Sarah’s last high school performance. “After the curtains are drawn for the last time, it hits you very suddenly that this really is their last performance in the school. It’s definitely a ‘wow’ moment,” she admits.
Fortunately for Burrell, who plans to continue as a theater volunteer for as long as she is needed, her two younger children look forward to being part of Chesapeake’s drama group when they reach the school.
“It’s a lot of fun. The kids make it worth the while,” she concluded.

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