The Wilson-area Total Actor in Production (TAIP) Lab is bringing to life a feature film. With award-winning producer Ray Shell at its helm, TAIP is filming locally, holding local auditions, and preparing for upcoming performances.
TAIP Lab is producing its first feature film, Grayhound, about homelessness in small town USA. Grayhound. Using local non-professional performers, the film is currently shooting at multiple Wilson, North Carolina locations.
Ray Shell, the TAIP Lab, and Big Harold’s Diner, are collaborating on a play to be presented as Dinner Theatre. Casting is underway for Edward Albee’s play, The Zoo Story. Auditions were held in early January, with casting expected to continue the week of January 16.
“I am still looking for 2 actors: a man in his early 30’s to 40’s and an older man, late 40’s upwards. I would love a diverse cast,” says Mr. Shell. Actors wanting to audition may contact Mr. Shell via email at dulamaes@gmail.com.
Performances of The Zoo Story begin March 16, 2017. Co-producer Harold Anderson will serve up a delicious steak dinner, followed by this riveting play by Edward Albee. Says Mr. Shell, “Wilson is in for a very kool treat.”
TAIP LAB is also cooking up something special for February 2017, collaborating with a Wilson-based business. Ray Shell is keeping details close to the vest now, until the official announcement is made.
Ray Shell, organizer of the TAIP Lab, not only produces locally but takes part in national productions. Currently, he is in Virginia, busy writing songs for his musical, Star Boy. Barton College’s head of drama, Adam Twiss, is directing a workshop production of Star Boy at the Kennedy Family Theatre, with Mr. Shell playing the Dad of the Star Boy. This workshop production is part of the New Works Festival, which is scheduled for February 18-26, 2017.
Mr. Shell plans to travel next to Washington DC for a January 9, 2017, appearance at the Kennedy Center. He is part of their production of Bud, Not Buddy, directed by Clarke Peters. More information on this Kennedy Center event is available at www.kennedy-center.org/calendar/event/KRTBB.
For more information on upcoming TAIP events, email Ray Shell.
