Whidbey Children's Theater
Ethan Berkley says that being involved with Whidbey Children’s Theater helped him learn how to discern social situations and make better decisions.
Ethan’s family moved to Whidbey Island when he was 10 years old. When he was 12 he discovered that the Whidbey Children’s Theater (WCT) provided a safe environment for him to learn how to work together with a group of people toward a common goal. He adds, “WCT felt like home to me.”
As a young boy, Ethan says he was socially awkward, overly outgoing and not sensitive toward how others were perceiving him. He had lots of energy but he didn’t quite know where to direct it all. His involvement with WCT allowed him to be “silly, weird and whacky” and enjoy himself while learning about sympathy and empathy. He believes that theater provides a sense of community.
His mother, Laura Berkley Boram, encouraged him to become involved in theater. He began his involvement with theater working at the WICA Youth Conservatory with Deana Duncan. Soon he was performing plays in his backyard for neighbors and cousins.
Ethan comments:, “In theater, you become part of a team of people who work toward a common goal.” Performing as a character in a story gives you the opportunity to experience other personalities and to better understand different people and situations.”
As he grew older and more experienced in theater, he developed his skills as a director and stage manager as well. As an adult he performed with Outcast Productions and WICA, as well as WCT (where he has worked with young people and directed plays). He has learned how to read audience reactions. He also notes, “Being involved with theater has helped me to become more sympathetic and understanding and to know how to relate to people in a positive way.”
Ethan earns a living on Whidbey as a construction sub-contractor, with a specialty in home improvements. But he doesn’t let his occupation interfere with his love of theater. Fortunately, Whidbey Island provides many opportunities for him to participate. He is also a father to a five-year old son, and he is planning to introduce his son, Alder, to Whidbey Children’s Theater when he is a little older.
