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From Farm Town to Classroom to Chicago Stage

Posted by DCA Theater on February 16, 2012 in January - July 2012 Season, The Ghost is Here

An Interview with Darrelyn Marx, the actress playing the Old Woman & Ensemble for Vitalist Theatre’s current production of The Ghost is Here at DCA Storefront Theater

I have been acting, singing, and performing since I was a kid. Growing up in a small town on a farm was a blessing because it forced us to find our passions in our playtime. I was always outside making ‘discoveries’ and playacting - putting my ‘dressed-up’ cats in a baby buggy and taking them on a journey to ‘town’ to buy groceries. When forced indoors, I took up teaching. My younger brother and sister were my first students, in a classroom that I had made for them out of TV trays and a small chalk board. Worksheets that I made for them were corrected with my trusty red pencil. I had even more ideas after I started first grade and emulated a teacher that I adored.

I loved school and participated in band, chorus, and drama. Outside of school I was a cheerleader for football and hockey, a figure skater who performed in ice shows for twelve years, and an accordion player who performed whenever asked. My parents and other influential adults guided me and encouraged my passions, so when it came time to figure out a college major it was very difficult. I liked chemistry and wanted a career in the chem-lab of the FBI, but music and theatre won out. My parents were worried that I would never be able to pay the bills with these passions, but when I started teaching both subjects they were elated.

Being a teacher was the happiest time of my life. I jumped out of bed in the morning and was in love with my students and my subject matter. I loved it when they shared my art in the classroom and in the shows that I directed after school. Theatre and music have many different avenues for enjoyment and not every student had to be an actor or singer to enjoy the craft. There were other ways to give back to the audience without being front and center. I encouraged my students to be inclusive and enjoy all the backstage artists that make the magic happen. I was happiest when the truth of that gesture came to fruition. 

Who knew that I could have a second career after retiring from teaching? I had to see if I could do what I had been teaching. It has been quite a journey, but one that has been worthwhile. I keep on learning by taking classes and sharing information with people who are like-minded. I trust that I will continue to grow and develop with each new opportunity given to me. I look forward to each audition, class, and show that allows me a chance to perform. If I were to characterize myself, I would probably be closest to Aunt Eller from Oklahoma! She knows who she is, goes after what she wants with tenacity, and exercises tough-love with a wink-of-the-eye. I will be doing this as long as I have the energy and passion in my heart. It has been part of my blood for many years.