There is a lot more to theater than what meets the eye. Many people don’t realize that the magic they witness happening on stage is all thanks to our very own students. These students are what bring together a show, but how are they learning to tie this finishing bow? 

For the past three year, Erin Beatie has been Bear River’s Theater Manager, and since her very first day, she has been making a difference. Not only has Mrs. Beatie been recognized for being an amazing teacher by her students, but she just recently was recognized for her amazing ability in lighting design.

Mrs. Beatie’s award was awarded for a show she helped with outside of Bear River.

“I was co-designer with Devin Cameron, and the show was James and the Giant Peach, produced by Sierra Stages,” she said. “I felt that as the Lighting Designers, Devin (one of her former students) and I were able to bring a sophisticated level of child-like magic to the show.”

Her students know her as being very mature and relatable, as Freshman Milo Fassel described.

“She treats us like young adults,” he said. “She makes sure we’re safe when working and walks us through everything. Not only that, but when we’re childish, she’s childish with us.”

Senior Leo Jackson agreed.

“I have a lot of fun in her class and she’s very personable,” she said. “The fact that she lets us call her Erin and not Mrs. Beatie makes her feel more human.”

Mrs. Beatie was elated when she received the award and continued to elaborate on how she felt.

“It is always nice when someone notices and appreciates the hard work put into a production,” she said. 

Fassel responded with his own recognition for Erin.

“She is an amazing teacher,” he said. “She just does really well and watches over us to the best of her ability.”

Jackson described the devotion Mrs. Beatie puts into her students and her classes.

“When she helps me, it’s because she wants me to be able to do it on my own and not because its her job,” she said. “She wants to see me succeed.”

Junior Noah Mann agreed.

“She helped me get experience outside of school instead of only learning in a school-like environment,” she said. “It was a lot different than in the class because there was a lot more expectations.” 

Mrs. Beatie explained her motivation behind helping her students isn’t for the awards or money.

“It is a nice recognition, but that is not why I do what I do,” she said. “I tell stories through technical and visual support, and my payoff is the audience applause. Anything more is just a nice cherry on top.”