Cast interview: Keely Borland

A couple of weeks ago we introduced you to Courtney Kalbacker, our Mabel that just happens to be married to the Pirate King!  For today's interview, we'd like you to meet our other fabulously talented Mabel - Keely Borland.  

What's your role in the show?
Mabel

Is this your first time in Pirates? If no, how many Pirates productions have you been in?
Yes! 

When and how did you first get involved with VLOC?
This is my very first production with The Victorian Lyric Opera Company and it's been an amazing experience so far.  Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, I moved to the DC/MD area last October and immediately started looking for performance opportunities. I love Gilbert & Sullivan, so when I saw the audition positing I got really excited.

What's your favorite part about being in a show (this particular one, or any show)?
I think one of the best parts about being in a show is all the new people you get to meet -- it's almost like gaining a new family. Everyone at VLOC has been so welcoming and I'm so excited to continue working with this company.  That being said, I love performing because you get to become a completely different character. Gilbert & Sullivan shows are especially fun because the text is really clever and the music is so much fun to sing.

What's your least favorite or the hardest part of the rehearsal process for you?
Nothing! :) Even when the rehearsal process becomes tedious it's still fun for me. I'm always grateful for the chance to perform any piece of music and to meet/work with new people. 

When you're not performing in community theatre, what do you do? (job, hobby, family, etc.)
I'm actually a Self-Employed Freelance Musician and strive to make a living off performing. Earlier this year I was living in Fargo, ND for 2.5 months working as a Young Artist with Fargo-Moorhead Opera. It's definitely not an easy lifestyle - there is constant uncertainty about the future and moving around. Right now, I am the Soprano Section Leader at Christ Episcopal Church in Rockville, MD and between rehearsals I work odd jobs around town.

What's your Gilbert & Sullivan show and why? (If you don't have one, pick a favorite musical or opera)
This question is too hard!  My first G&S production was singing the role of Josephine in H.M.S. Pinafore with the Pittsburgh Savoyards. So I think that show will always have a special place in my heart. 

Anything else you want to share?
Thank you Victorian Lyric Opera Company for this wonderful performance opportunity!

Visit my website for more upcoming performances:
www.KeelyBosworthBorland.com

What is your Pirate name?
Mabel doesn't have a Pirate name!

Thanks, Keely!  You can see Keely as Mabel on June 12th, 14th, 20th, and 21st.  Have you gotten your tickets yet? 

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