Fresno-raised Connor Barton moved to New York during the COVID-19 pandemic to chase his wild theatre dream of making it big.
Now, he’s preparing to bring his talents back home to the William Saroyan Theatre for the showing of the musical comedy, “Mrs. Doubtfire,” on May 26-27.
“I really hope that someone gets to see someone from Fresno who went out and was able to make it happen, and [that] they get to do that too,” Barton said.
“Mrs. Doubtfire” is a classic tale of a pseudo-Scottish nanny born out of an out-of-work actor who will do anything for his children.
After going through a complicated divorce, Daniel Hillard creates an alter-ego, Euphegenia Doubtfire, who becomes a nanny for his ex-wife and children.
“As his new character takes on a life of its own, Mrs. Doubtfire teaches Daniel more than he bargained for about how to be a father,” according to the show’s press release.
But a lot goes on behind the scenes to create a production of this beloved story.
“I’m a swing for the production, so I cover the male ensemble, which is five different tracks,” Barton said.
In Barton’s case, being a swing means being ready to sub in for any given male role due to unforeseen circumstances.
But they said that stress is part of why they love it.
“My favorite part of doing the show, honestly, is finding out 30 minutes before the show that I’m on for a track,” Barton said. “It kind of is this big test of your mental capacity and knowing these tracks inside and out.”
Having just celebrated his 50th swing-on in Omaha, Nebraska, Barton said his tour group hits as many as two cities per week.
“If I’m not on, I’m rehearsing for my other tracks in the show, or I’m working on auditions for other projects, or I’m updating my website, I’m taking voice lessons,” Barton said.
For some, this might seem like an endless loop of hustle and bustle, but Barton said it’s all about balancing personal needs with those of the production.
And, for them, the craziness is worth it for such a special show.
“The show speaks on such universal themes of family and chosen family,” Barton said. “You don’t realize that it’s kind of hitting you in the heartstrings until you leave, because you’re just laughing the whole time.”
The show starts at 7:30 p.m. on both days, with ticket prices starting at about $50.
