Debuting Artist: Calvin August
Can you share a bit about your background and how you first became involved in theatre?
I first became involved in theatre and performance in middle and high school productions as well as the city’s Winter Wishes Ice Shows. After taking a break to pursue teaching, I returned to performing first on ice with the Fort Collins Figure Skating Club’s Spring Extravaganza Shows which led me to compete in theatrical showcase skating at the national adult level (I have two 1st place finishes and one 3rd place). After studying acting in both group classes and independently the last few years, I made my acting debut with Bas Bleu’s Mr. Burns this past fall and am so excited to have returned to the theatre so quickly as backstage crew for OpenStage’s Misery!
How did you first hear about OpenStage, and what drew you to work with us for this show?
I first heard about OpenStage through a Google search for theatre companies to audition for and also have had a childhood friend who performed in one of their productions years ago. One of the backstage crew messaged me with an offer and I jumped at the chance to be a part of this show and continue to be involved in Fort Collins’ amazing theatre community!
What is your specific role or area of expertise for this show, and what excites you the most about working on this production?
My specific role revolves around two main areas: quick changes and squibs (though I do help with additional set changes and props!). The most exciting part of working on this production is the synergy that happens in theatre, all of us working together in our own way to tell an incredible story and the adrenaline rush and camaraderie that happens with that.
What is the most interesting or unique aspect of your work for this production?
The most interesting part of my work is finding the most efficient and powerful way to create the quick change flow, environment, and props that help the actors tell the story. I love when things begin to click along and work seamlessly together and my brain keeps working on better ways of doing things. I have also loved watching the actors work from behind the scenes and learning as much as I can from them!
What makes Misery a unique play to work on?
Misery is unique in the way the story rides that line between tragedy and comedy. It is a three person show that teeters between an almost domestic charm and Stephen King’s trademark horrific flair. I have also learned how to clean dishes in the shower due to the amount of show food, and that has been unique!
What is your favorite moment or scene in the show, and why does it stand out to you?
The scene that comes to mind more than any other is when Annie stands in the open doorway during one pivotal moment. Sometimes the quiet moments speak the loudest and the lighting design that silhouettes her silent form before she exclaims her first line always gives me chills.
Who is your favorite character in the show and why?
Though I find myself relating to each in my own way (I am also a writer like Paul and can get cranky when interrupted, as well as trying to be kind and compassionate like Buster), I do have to say my favorite is Annie. The way she swings from one extreme to the other is fascinating.
What is your favorite play or musical?
Currently, it is a hard tie between Hadestown and Ride the Cyclone.
What is one of your favorite designs or technical/show achievements from your career so far, and what made it special to you?
As far as show achievements, I am most proud of my portrayal of Gibson in Mr. Burns. It was my first professional stage role and I learned a lot from it. As far as technical, I am quite proud of how I’ve taken squib making to a science and love what it adds to the end of the play when done well.
Is there a dream role or type of production you hope to work on in the future? OR What upcoming projects or roles are you excited about?
My dream role would be back on stage in a musical (okay, I must admit to having dreams of playing Orpheus one day in Hadestown).
What do you like to do in your free time when you’re not working on theatre projects?
I am most often found on the ice figure skating. I also love painting, playing my various instruments, and playing games (board games, card games, video games, I love them all!).
Misery
By William Goldman
Based on the novel by Stephen King
Directed by Jacob Offen
November 1-29, 2025
Playing at The Lincoln Center Magnolia Theatre
Colorado. A secluded cabin. A total nightmare. After a car crash leaves bestselling romance novelist, Paul Sheldon, stranded in a snowstorm, he’s rescued by Annie Wilkes, his “number one fan”. Unfortunately, her hospitality comes with VERY strict rules. When Annie learns Paul has killed off her favorite character, she insists he fix his mistake… or else! Stephen King’s Misery is a razor-edged thriller about fandom gone feral and the terrifying price of rewriting a story someone doesn’t want to end.
Content/Atmosphere Warning: Contains adult language, adult themes, violence, gore. For specific questions on content, please contact info@openstage.com
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