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Community Corner

Lifelong Heights Actor Hopes to Bring New Blood to the Drama Group

Charlie Misovye has been with the Drama Group more than three decades and does it all for the love of his craft.

The performance bug bit Charlie Misovye at an early age. At five years old he performed for his kindergarten graduation. That was back in the 1960s. After that, a mothers club at St. Michael's Parish, along South Shore Drive, invited him to perform.

“I lip synced before anyone even knew what it was," Misovye said. "It started way back when both of my older sisters went to dance class. I tagged along. When I saw them dance, I wanted to do that. All of a sudden I was taking classes."

The classes were only the beginning. Misovye soon began seeing the intangible rewards for his work.

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"When I was at St. Michael's Mothers Club event, I got up and lip synced to Wayne Newton’s  'I Want Some Red Roses for a Blue Lady,'" Misovye explained. "They loved it."

Misovye is now president of the , in its 80th season of shows. This, like every other position he holds, is as a volunteer. During his tenure, Misovye's first goal was simply to help South Suburban residents find the building.

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“We’re looking forward in getting our first sign on Ashland Avenue," Misovye said. "After 80 years, we still have a number of people that come to a show and said they didn’t know we were here. Or we hear 'I’ve lived in Chicago Heights all my life and never knew you existed.'"

Misovye said he wants to see that change that. But shouting the Drama Group's existence with a bullhorn isn't his only duty as president. He also has to look at financial statements, take care of the lawn and clean the toilets.

“My onstage time has been limited but I am looking forward to getting back on stage,"Misovye said.

His paid job is being the group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center in Munster, IN. It is housed in the Center for Performing Arts. Misovye has been there for six years.

“I also have the opportunity to produce, direct and choreograph the holiday children’s theater presentations at the theater as well," Misovye said of his duties. "In addition, I’m in charge of a number of fund-raising campaigns and our Big Friends of the Theatre donor campaign. At any job, I multi-task and wear a number of different hats at the same time.”

And hats he has worn, several of them during his long career as an actor. His heart has always been with the Drama Group, where he has been for more than 30 years. Misovye favorite role is from a well-known musical.

“My favorite character would be Baby John in West Side Story," the actor said. "The summer of my senior year at Marian High, I was working my way up at the Drama Group. I was cast as Baby John. Twenty years later, I would play him again."

Charlie is a 1978 graduate of , where he continues to work with some of the students.

“Recently, I went back to Marian Catholic High and directed their production of West Side Story," Misovye said. "I’m slated to direct their musical next year as well. I thank God that I am able to make a living at something that I love.”

Considering the tumultuous economic climate of Chicago Heights, it’s hard to keep a non-profit continuing to grow. How does Misovye keep it going? 

“There has been a great history of this building," he explained. "We really depend on ticket sales to support us. We can always use donations of props and costumes and of course financial assistance. We do apply for a number of grants, but those dry up quickly and/or gets cut back."

All the attempts to raise money are in the interest of a central goal for the Heights.

"We’re always looking for revenues to expand our mission of providing great Broadway-style theater right here in the local community at an affordable price," Misovye continued, adding that manpower is also sorely needed. "We are always looking for people to join us. Volunteers can be a director, work on the set with production, being on production staff or choreographer. We have a lot of volunteer opportunities for any members of our community.”

One of the biggest rewards of Misovye's work, he said, comes from the youngest faces he sees.

"We have a need for young people to experience live theater," he said. "It’s always a great feeling of completion. I did that. To see these young people stay with theatre, grow up with the Drama Group and turn out to be wonderful well-rounded human beings. It’s great to know you’ve had a positive effect on someone’s life and their character as they become an adult."

A program for students is also available as well as discounted ticket prices for large groups. An extension of the theater in the classroom is also available, perfect for schools. Upcoming is a children’s theater camp for this summer. 

Charlie Misovye lives and breathes theater and perpetually proclaims his love for the Drama Group, even sending out a special message to Patch readers:

“If you have never heard of us, never have seen one of our productions, I cordially invite you to attend one of our affordable priced shows. We are located one block north of Marian (Catholic) High School. We also perform at Bloom High school, which is a wonderful historic building. Come out and witness the local talent and the professional quality that your neighbors can put together. To present to you and preserve this cultural icon. The welcome mat is always out.”

Biloxi Blues opens at the Drama Group on June 10 and runs through June 19. Tickets are still available. The Studio Theatre is located at 330 W. 202nd Street in Chicago Heights.  For more information call 708-755-3444 or online the Drama Group's Website.

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