by Jenni Osburn
Camilla has been involved with Beaumaris for the past twenty years. During this time she has choreographed seventeen of our productions.
She has given her time generously, both whilst serving on the Committee and when we required her support after she stepped down from Committee duties.
Serving Beaumaris as a Talbot Judge was a difficult task in itself, Camilla did so fairly and managed to still maintain friendships!
Camilla was integral in bringing Beaumaris into the digital age. She introduced us to promotional strategies we had never considered, organised letter drop campaigns and used her immeasurable design skills numerous times to promote the theatre and its functions, broadening our reach both locally and online. As a Committee, we have sought her wise, calm counsel on many a subject and situation.
Camilla was responsible for the main event that raised the largest amount of funds for our raked seating, by organising Eddie Perfect to perform.
Choreography is a skill that is often underestimated and underappreciated. It is rarely given, the amount of rehearsal time it deserves or requires.
Choreographing for a professional standard of dancers is hard enough but asking for movement to be designed for amateur theatre is challenging to say the least.
Camilla has not only the skill, to visualise and create pieces that enhance the story the director is telling but the patience to work with and bring the best out of performers at every level, even those with little or no dance training.
Her choreography always respects the period the piece was written as well as being age-appropriate when dealing with junior performers. No one is left behind, so to speak and no one is made to feel inadequate.
I have been involved with Beaumaris since 2007 and in that time many a disgruntled discussion has occurred but not once, I kid you not, has Camilla, been the subject of any such discussion. I can honestly say that I have never heard a bad word spoken about or by Camilla and I can’t say the same for the rest of you.
Camilla is Beaumaris Royalty and like all good royals has produced both an heir and a spare. Both of whom are now active members of the Beaumaris Theatre family.
During lockdown, Camilla participated in our online Monologue Series writing and performing an original piece. I would like to share with you a small quote from said piece.
“The hard work and creations we produce now will be remembered, beyond when we are missed.”
This is so true of your work and creations.
You are a true Beaumaris Theatre stalwart.
Camilla, you have both graced our stage but most importantly you have brought grace to our stage.
Congratulations to our new Life Member, Camilla Klesman and Fred Pezzimenti!