2017 November PASO Magazine

By Melissa Chavez
Founder and director of
Applause Children’s Theater
in Paso Robles, Vikky
Mullin, appears to be on a
mission.
As a child, she used
American Sign Language
to communicate with her
cousin, and the Cal Poly
alumnus put her teaching
credential to work teaching
ASL in area schools and
traveled with students throughout
California to perform ASL set to
music in full costumes. Her sites became
broadened with the firm belief
that all children deserve the opportunity
to perform on stage.
“Every kid can take part and be a
star. They really can,” said Vikky.
This month, Vikky is completing
a six-week acting class for children ages seven
and up geared to help them hone skills to
prepare auditions for the springtime production
of “Peter Pan, Jr.” Following completion
of the course is a Parent Showcase where
they can witness the fruits of their children’s
discoveries.
“In our very first camp, 50 kids signed up,”
said Vikky. “For two weeks, every child got
involved in all aspects of performing and
even had private voice lessons. Whether
they’re seasoned performers or have never
performed, we’re inclusive. There is a fit
for everyone. Everyone who auditions gets
cast,” she added. “They’re involved in all of
it — acting, dancing and singing, and many
get involved with costumes, set design and
Vikky Mullin
choreography, too.”
Summer camp activities
are especially useful to help
kids of all ages feel more at
ease with one another, develop
camaraderie and allow
them to express themselves
in an encouraging and supportive
environment. Last
spring, Vikky produced
“The Wizard of Oz” musical
at Flamson Auditorium,
featuring 60 children. Not
only was each child given one role
to play; they had an average of three
costume changes each.
“We’ll have a workshop in December
with scripts and auditions
in January. If children and teens are
interested, they will need to call and
register their spots,” said Vikky. “I
see kids who are so shy that they
won’t even talk, but when they begin getting
involved, things change. Some of the best
compliments I’ve received are from the parents
who tell me that their child didn’t quite
find their niche in sports or that their child
was going through a hard time, but found
their outlet through performing. Even the
shyest of kids learn how to take part.”
What is it that makes Vikky’s classes so unique?
“I have a very calming, instructive, fun way
of directing. These kids learn to believe in
themselves. One of them even signed with a
management company in Los Angeles,” said
Vikky. “We welcome children of all abilities.
We’re creative and we make it work.”
The Board of Directors at Applause Children’s
Theater is comprised of seven people
EDUCATION & CULTURE
who provide operational, administrative
and fiscal support, plus three parents. They
include: Jessica Riley (President), Jonathan
Shroyer (Vice President), Amanda Krumme
(Secretary), Lisa Rokes (Treasurer), and Julie
Taylor, Audrey Arellano and Christine
Coons (Parent Representatives).
Vikky also relies on the support of corporate
and private sponsors to fund her 501(c)
(3) nonprofit organization. At press time,
this year’s major sponsors include The Stein
Family, Paso Robles realtor Fred Bruen,
Jim Bruhns of Hogue, Inc. in Paso Robles,
Anthony’s Tire Store in Paso Robles, and
the Optimist Club in Paso Robles, who
have made donations ranging from $250
to $1,500 thus far toward the spring 2018
production. Other donors who help mitigate
ongoing costs include “Friends Of ACT”
contributors, who donate up to $250, and
every donation counts to help keep the operation
going.
To purchase show tickets, register children
to participate or make donations, those
interested can call Vikky at 610-7187. She
prefers most to speak with people directly,
listen to their requests or concerns and discover
new ways in which she can benefit
others through performing arts. Messages
may also be left at the www.applausechildrenstheater.com
website, Facebook page,
or email at applausect@gmail.com.
Vikky, center, with Wizard of Oz chorus cast
52 PASO Magazine, November 2017