By Ellyn Wexler, Staff Writer
Community theatre thrives on the passion and dedication of volunteers, and nowhere is this more evident than at Reston Community Players (RCP). For more than 50 years, RCP has delivered high-quality productions to the Reston area, thanks to the hundreds of volunteers who contribute their time and talents. From set builders to sound operators, every volunteer plays a key role in creating the magic on stage.
Michael Barret Jones, President of the RCP Board of Directors and Director of Development for Round House Theatre in Bethesda, recognizes the importance of volunteers. “Volunteers are the lifeblood of community theatre,” he said. “We are all doing this out of love.” In the 2023-24 season alone, he noted, 164 unique volunteers supported RCP in various capacities.
Jones began volunteering shortly after moving to Reston two years ago. After offering his help via email and attending RCP’s volunteer party, he eventually joined the board and appeared as Princess Dragomiroff in RCP’s production of “Murder on the Orient Express.” He is set to direct a play in the 2025-26 season. Growing up in Wilmington, Del., home to 18 community theatres, Jones trained as a director at Drew College and spent 30 years working in nonprofit organizations in New Jersey and New York City—all experiences that have benefited RCP.
Brian Altmiller, a recent volunteer and patent attorney, exemplifies how RCP welcomes individuals from all backgrounds. For six years, he led drama booster groups at Herndon Middle and High Schools, supporting his daughter’s stage involvement. After her graduation in June, Altmiller decided to pursue his own passion for theatre–dormant since his own high school days as part of the stage crew. Since contacting RCP, he has helped build sets and operated the follow spot (that is, the spotlight for following a performer moving about a stage) for “Fiddler on the Roof,” and will run the soundboard for “Four Weddings and an Elvis” (on stage Jan. 24-Feb. 2). “The people are wonderful, and I enjoy learning new skills,” he said. Volunteering at RCP is also convenient for him: “My office (at the Posz Law Group) is literally two minutes from [RCP’s performance space at] the Reston Community Center.”
For Altmiller, volunteering is about more than just completing tasks; it’s about being part of something bigger. “For five or 10 minutes, I’m the most important person,” he joked, referring to his role operating the follow spot. “RCP offers endless opportunities—just show up with an open mind and a willingness to learn.”
This inclusive philosophy is central to RCP’s success. “If you’re interested in volunteering, we will welcome you,” Jones said. Volunteers can explore different roles—whether building sets, operating technical equipment, ushering, or acting—until they find the perfect fit.
Reflecting on his own journey, Jones shared a sentiment that resonates with many at RCP:
“My parents met on stage. I was born on stage. This is where I belong.” For those who share a similar passion, volunteering at RCP offers a chance to make an impact while forging lifelong friendships.
As RCP looks ahead, its commitment to its volunteers remains strong. With a diverse and dedicated community, RCP continues to demonstrate how the arts can unite people, one production at a time.
Interested in volunteering? Email online@restonplayers.org or visit RCP’s website to learn more about upcoming opportunities and productions.
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