Insights with the Artists: Wendy Rockburn

Sam chats with Stage Manager Extraordinaire Wendy Rockburn about her favourite moments with Platypus Theatre.

Sam and Wendy at a cozy spot in Saint John, during the 2022-2023 season tour to New Brunswick.

Q: When did you begin working with Platypus Theatre?

A: I started working with Platypus in 2005, so 2025 is my 20th anniversary!  Aren’t I lucky?!!!

Q: What’s unique about stage managing a show that combines actors, musicians, and an entire orchestra?

A: Well, working with an orchestra is not much different from a regular theatrical performance, especially a musical. But with our Platypus shows, I sometimes take my cue from the conductor, which is fun because they all have different styles of conducting.

Q: What’s the most exciting or memorable place you’ve traveled to, and how did the experience performing there impact you?

A: The most memorable place for me was Australia, closely followed by my favourite city/country, Singapore.  The people of Australia were so much like us, but with thicker and different accents, of course, and as we are both members of the Commonwealth, it felt like home in many ways, which is a nice feeling in this big old world.

Q: What is it like bringing Canadian stories to young audiences worldwide?

A: I think Canada has so much in the way of storytelling to give to the world, and our Platypus shows are no exception! Take "How the Gimquat Found Her Song" and the iconic loon: when we go to countries that have never heard a loon and have no idea of the power and symbolism of that call, they are as equally moved as North American audiences.

Q: Each orchestra you work with is different—new musicians, new conductors, new concert halls. How do you build a seamless connection between the theatre production and each orchestra to create a magical experience for young audiences?

A: Well, as stage manager, my relationship with the orchestra is fairly minimal, but I work closely with the technical and production staff.  And each staff, like each orchestra, is different, so I have to adjust my way of doing things to fit in with the house staff.  It’s sometimes a challenge, most times a pleasure, and we always get a good show in the end!

Q: Introducing children to live orchestral music is a core part of Platypus Theatre’s mission. What’s a moment you’ve witnessed where you saw a young audience member truly light up because of the show?

A: As I’m usually at the back of the house calling the show, I don’t get to see the kids’ faces, but I do get to hear their reactions. In the shows where we encourage the audience to get up and dance, it’s always fun to watch them (and their parents) do that! Every once in a while, a kid will notice me behind them and ask me what I’m doing - that’s always a nice moment. 

I like when after the performances, we can head to the lobby to say hello and demonstrate how the puppets work or what the masks are made of. To see a child who is afraid of the monster in “Emily Saves the Orchestra” summon up the courage to touch him is always a good moment.

Q: What do you do when you’re not Stage Managing with Platypus Theatre?

A: When I’m not working for Platypus, I do a lot of other things.  I love to travel and have been to many places around the world, like China, Turkey, India, South Africa, Kenya, Mongolia and Peru, to name just a few.  Last year I was in Italy and next month I’m off to Portugal and Spain.  I also knit and sell my works at Christmas craft fairs, and I walk dogs!  So I’m always busy - and that, plus working with Platypus, helps to keep me young, at least at heart!!