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Lighting up with Roger

Longtime Isabelle Reader Theatre tech man lands on his feet

Things are looking up for Roger Traviss.

The former longtime technical director at the Isabelle Reader Theatre in Langford has signed a six-show contract with Ballet Victoria as lighting director.

“It’s great. It’s a great company and I enjoy it,” said Traviss, currently working on a production of The Gift of Pandora’s Box.

It’s been six months since he was laid off from his post of 24 years and he still thinks about his time at the community theatre. “I miss working with the students. They are a great bunch of kids.”

Traviss, now 65, was a fixture at Isabelle Reader, overseeing the lights and sound system anytime a community or school group was using the theatre.

When news broke that he was leaving his position with the Sooke School District, Traviss received a flood of community support, both in person and online.

“I’ve been really touched by (the appreciation),” he said.

While his unexpected departure from the school district is still a sore spot, Traviss said he’s happy with his new position, which involves touring with Ballet Victoria.

He is keeping busy otherwise, helped by his membership in a stage union.

He has worked on shows at various venues on the South Island, including as a follow spotlight operator for the Rock the Shores music festival at West Shore Parks and Recreation last July.

“Things have been really busy,” Traviss said. “You learn something new every day of your life. At least you should be.”

charla@goldstreamgazette.com