As National Volunteer Month unfolds, we're excited to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes behind the scenes of our enchanting theatre productions. Dive into the captivating world of our dedicated volunteers who infuse passion and dedication into every aspect of theatrical magic. Join us in celebrating their invaluable contributions, ranging from ushering to tech crew and more, as we honor their commitment to bringing stories to life onstage.
Today, we are highlighting the work of Brian Zimmerman. Brian is an actor, and helps backstage during performances.
Do you have a memorable experience of volunteering you’d like to share?
Brian: I happen to share the first name of a very talented technician at UW-Fox Cities, Attic’s performance space. During load-in and set building of my first show, my name was called several times loudly to which I would always turn and say, “Yes?”. It was NEVER for me. The set builder, John Dalziel, asked me my character name, which was A.C. John and a few others have called me A.C. during each Tech Week ever since.
Why do you like volunteering with Attic?
Brian: My mother, who was very supportive of my acting when I was a small child, passed in 2017. I feel, in some way, like theatre is something that brings me closer to her. The people involved with Attic are really good people. They are humble, helpful, and friendly, and they have backgrounds in every aspect of theatre. I also like how Attic puts on a great show and am proud to be a part of the experience. I watch them if I’m not directly involved. As an older guy who got back into theatre late in life, I’ve never been made to feel like an outsider because I didn’t have the years of experience someone my age could have, and I’ve used the Attic stage, among others, as a classroom with some of the best teachers. I feel like a part of the Attic family, and it brings me joy to watch our audience enjoy themselves and escape for a while.
How do you balance volunteer work with other aspects of your life?
Brian: My nights and weekends are free, and my wife and I are empty nesters, so my calendar is open during certain times of the year. I live by the mantra of “the first to give me specific dates is my priority,” so if production rehearsal/performance dates are set, I don’t miss them for anything outside of family emergencies which I’ve been lucky enough so far not to have. Being involved also helps make my life more than just work, eating, sleeping, and repeating things.
What do you do outside of volunteering/theatre?
Brian: I work from home as a software developer for a mortgage services company based in Mequon, WI, and I’ve been there for 10 years. I’m also the current Board President of 4x4 Forever, located in the Fox Valley, an Off-roading Club, and a member of the Wisconsin Coalition of Off-road Clubs. Of course, I enjoy working on my Jeep Rubicon and taking it out on rugged trails with the Club in my spare time. I’m married with four step-children and 9 grandchildren. My wife Chris and our 4 kids have been very supportive of my theatre and other projects, and I love spending time with them and performing for them, allowing them to see a different side of me.
What advice would you give to someone interested in volunteering?
Brian: Just do it. Everyone is so welcoming, and you are treated with respect and kindness. The theatre needs volunteers, both on and backstage. Any help you can provide, in any capacity, is welcomed. You may even find new friends along the way.
Want to join the fun? Consider volunteering! Like many nonprofits, Attic Theatre, Inc. depends on our volunteers to do a variety of tasks. And there are many different ways you can get involved, regardless of your experience or the amount of time you have to volunteer.
If you're interested in volunteering, please visit the "Volunteers" page on our website and fill out the form with your information.
