“Twenty five years is a long time,” says Richard Wruth, the founder of Vanderhoof Children’s Theatre (VCT).
Born and raised in Vanderhoof, Wruth has been a fixture in the fine arts community and has staged many of the classic productions such as Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Peter Pan to name a few.
This year as VCT celebrates its silver jubilee Wruth looks back at his theatrical journey.
“If you asked me, even 10, 15 years ago, I didn’t think I was still going to be doing this [theatre] but it is something that I do enjoy and the community enjoys and I think it is great for the kids to be able to be involved in a fine art.”
Wruth has been a beacon of inspiration for generations of youngster who passed through the doors of VCT. But none of this would have been possible without the support of parents, volunteers and the superb encouragement and support of the community, he says.
“It’s a team effort to bring a show together and I have a very good team of parents that have been helping me for years. Some of them don’t even have children left in the theater, but they’re still here volunteering to bring it to the community because it’s something they enjoy as well.”
While theatre is his passion, Wruth is also a farmer and businessman who runs two retail outlets in Vanderhoof –California Dreamin and W4 Western Wear. In 2015, Wruth was honoured with a BC Community Achievement Award for his commitment to the youth and children of Vanderhoof.
As Wruth reflects on the incredible stories that have unfolded under the stage lights, it’s evident that the true measure of success lies not in the applause of the audience but in the personal growth of the students.
“Seeing those kids up there is like the highlight for me, especially kids who are so shy but, by the end, have broken out of their shell,” says Wruth.
The commitment is not fleeting; Wruth has been a guiding force from grade two to grade twelve, nurturing talents over the years. “I have many of them that have gone on to theater programs or are going into a theater teaching program,” he says.
Theater, according to Wruth, is not just about memorizing lines or staging performances. It’s a holistic journey, rich with experiences that foster creativity, teamwork, and communication skills.
Beyond the script, Wruth is shaping the narratives of these young minds, imparting invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the confines of the stage.