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"Working" off the clock

Even when she's off the clock, Stacy Vogel has been "Working" hard. Stacy has a part in JPAC's "Working," which opens Thursday in downtown Janesville.

It's been hard to keep up with her, but Off the Clock briefly pulled Stacy away from interviews with Edgerton City Council members for a quick chat about what she's doing with her free time.

Off the Clock: Stacy, you've been really busy lately. It must be getting close to opening night. Tell us about "Working."

Stacy: "Working" is different from any other play I've been in because, instead of an overarching plot, it's a series of monologues and songs where people talk about what they do. That might sound boring, but the monologues are based on interviews with real people, and they're powerful. We've even added some monologues based on real Rock County people, including Doris Thom, the first woman to work on the line at Janesville's GM plant.

OTC: When are show times and how do we get tickets?

Stacy: The show runs 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $5 for students and $12 for groups of six or more. Thursday is a special "pay what you can" performance in honor of Rock County's workers, especially those who have lost their jobs recently.

OTC: Do you recommend the book? Are you a Studs Terkel fan?

Stacy: I'm about halfway through the book. It's a long one at 600 pages, but it's fascinating. Terkel interviewed all kinds of people who do all kinds of things and set down their real words. You never really think about what some people go through for their jobs and how different it can be from your own. Believe it or not, this is the first Terkel book I've read, but I definitely will be checking out more.

OTC: I understand the play is a fundraiser.

Stacy: Yes, the play is raising money for the Rock County Historical Society. It's also part of a larger project called "Celebrating the American Worker." Labor historian Elizabeth Jozwiak will speak about Rock County labor history before Sunday's performance, and JPAC will display exhibits about Rock County companies. The historical society also has an exhibit running until December about Rock County workers.

OTC: Should we bring the kids?

Stacy: The show is great to teach older children about history and jobs. You might want to leave the younger children at home, because there are a few naughty words and one character is a real "working girl," if you know what I mean.

OTC: Tell us a little bit about your part.

Stacy: I have two main parts. One is a young businesswoman ("project manager") who is disillusioned with her job. Another is a waitress who takes pride in her work despite the hardships. I even get to sing a song as the waitress about how my job is an art.

OTC: Waitressing is indeed an art ... You're singing? Sweet! Are you nervous?

Stacy: Somewhat. This is my first time in a musical, and I wasn't expecting a solo. But it's a lot of fun!

OTC: This is the third community production you've been in since you moved to Janesville. I know it's hard to find the time, but you always do. Would you recommend community theater to others?

Stacy: Definitely. It does take up a lot of time, but it's a wonderful way to make friends and be creative.

OTC: Break a leg! We're excited to come watch.

Stacy: Thanks! Call JPAC at (608) 758-0297 for more info.