Pam Benzing landed her big show biz break in the Market House Theatre's Anything Goes last month. The musical, which played for three consecutive weekends, was a huge hit, with Benzing singing and tap dancing her way into the audiences' hearts. When she's not in character on stage, she plays an accountant for that big company with a little name: CSI.Pam Benzing, you are cute, cute, cute, no doubt about it! And now with your starring role in the Market House Theatre's production of Anything Goes, you're all famous!
Yes, the fame is maa-valous! I had one line and one prop, and had so much fun joking with friends about the pressure! I only intended to try out for singing in the chorus, but Diane Byrd, the director, needed “extras” to be the passengers on the ship, so that’s me, along with three other ladies! We walk around, filling in the background, and we occasionally chatter. Then, in Act II, I have my one big scripted line!
What was it?
I said, "He doesn't sound like Snake Eyes Johnson!" A friend has this memorized and now repeats it back to me, for kicks.
It was such a great show!
It was. It was a musical comedy, set on a ritzy cruise liner. The characters are all quirky and funny, and all the lead actors sing and dance and just did a wonderful job! I am always amazed at the depth of local talent that gets showcased in community theatre.
What prompted you to audition?
I have never, ever, done any acting before Anything Goes, but always thought it would be fun to sing in the chorus for a musical comedy. My daughter is involved in Market House junior programs, and it has been a wonderful experience for her.
So you auditioned?
This spring I finally got up the nerve to give it a try and audition. Little did I know walking into auditions that tap dancing would be involved or that I actually would have to speak on stage! Diane was gracious enough to let me join the cast, and it has really been a fun experience.
And you learned to tap dance?
Hmm, well yes…. Sort of…. Sure…. Seriously, I tried my best, and have decided if you can generally stay on the right beat, turn when everybody else turns and smile through the whole thing, nobody pays much attention to your feet.
Are you directing your feet to Broadway next?I do not think Broadway will be calling me anytime soon, but I have learned a lot about what it takes to put together a production, and have a new appreciation for all the work behind the scenes. I would encourage anyone with an interest in theater to check out the Market House.
Even if we can't sing or dance?
There is something for everyone to do, either acting on the stage, working with the sets or helping with all the other outside activities that go on, such as staffing the Buzzard Brothers BBQ booth at the Lowertown Arts Festival.
Right on! Now Pam, have you always lived in Paducah?
I'm originally from Southwest Virginia, but have lived in Paducah for 15 years.
What brought you here?
I moved here with family, due to a job transfer.
And you have a daughter?
Yes, one daughter, Rachel. She is a Clark Elementary graduate and will be attending Paducah Middle School this year. She was recently is the MHT junior production of Harriet the Spy and the Clark Elementary production of 101 Dalmatians.
Excellent! Like daughter, like mother!
Yes, she's a great influence on me!
Tell us about working for CSI. Do you love it?
I have worked at CSI since 1999 and am currently the director of Corporate Accounting, which means I work on various corporate accounting projects. I have always worked in the accounting field, either here or in
Virginia. For a while, I worked out of my home, keeping books for several local businesses, while my daughter was a baby.
Working for CSI, you must account for big numbers!
Well, our goal is big profit numbers! CSI is a great company to work for and has been very successful through the years. CSI is a big supporter of the Carson Center, back when the center was being built, and as an on-going sponsor for various shows.
What do you do when you're not working?
When not at work, I mostly just hang out at home, or go swimming in the summer. I am a member of my church vocal and bell choirs, which requires practice a couple evenings per week. And I teach K-2nd Sunday school on Sunday mornings.
Which church?
Broadway United Methodist Church, in the heart of Downtown Paducah! We are finishing up a renovation project, which turned out beautifully. Come by some Sunday morning and check us out!
Plus, I am always available to go shopping or do something fun if it means I can postpone housework!
Rock on! And where do you shop?Actually, I am not a big shopper. I just do not want to do housework. I mean, what’s the point? Dust always comes back….
I hear ya, sister. So now that you're a big stage star, will it be harder for you to meet men?
Well, I am pretty content as is, but if the right guy came along…. And yes, I am trying to not let the fame affect me – I do not want to forget all those who helped me get where I am today ;).
Pam, you are very funny! Beautiful and funny! What's your idea of a great date?
Go to Sonic, eat burgers and watch the kids loop up and down Park Avenue.
You know what? That does sound like fun! So what will you audition for next?
The Wizard of Oz is scheduled for next spring at MHT. Perhaps I can be the Witch with the feet sticking out from under the house after the tornado. Also, aren’t there flying monkeys in this show that carry off the little dog, Toto? That sounds fun!
I dunno. I see you as Glenda the Good Witch. I think she and that hottie Tin Man always had a little something going on. Bravo, Pam Benzing! Bravo!
