In the Queen’s Theatre Circle: Julia Gehring on Creating and Teamwork
When theatre majors at Queen’s University band together, they create more than a production; they form a community. This year’s Fall Major is Caucasian Chalk Circle, a play that explores justice, social inequality, motherhood, and connection. As assistant director for the show and third-year concurrent education student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in drama and art history at Queen’s University, Julia Gehring plays a key role in bringing the production to life. In this interview, she shares her insights on what it’s like to collaborate with the Queen’s theatre community.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
How did you first get involved in theatre?
My dad was always into the arts—he acted, modeled, even did Shakespeare—so I like to say it’s in the genes. Growing up, I was always singing and dancing and just loved expressing myself through movement. As I got older, that turned into a real passion for theatre. I took acting and singing classes and fell in love with the community and the feeling of bringing people together.
When I came to Queen’s, I knew I wanted to keep doing it. Acting had been my main focus for most of my life, but I saw so many chances here to explore more: directing, assistant directing, and producing. I started with DSS, the Dan Studio Series, and eventually applied to be an assistant director for the major. And here I am.
When you’re not working as an assistant director, what kinds of plays or performances do you enjoy watching for yourself?
I really love watching shows in the community—whether it’s at school, in Kingston at the Grand Theatre, or back home. But what’s especially meaningful to me is seeing my friends and peers on stage. There’s something so unique about watching people you know perform. Being in theatre, I understand the work that goes on behind the scenes, so I have an extra level of appreciation for what I’m seeing. Even when I’m not part of a show, being there to support others feels just as important.
What drew you to Caucasian Chalk Circle as a project? Was there something about the script, characters, or meaning behind it that immediately clicked with you?
Our wonderful director, Greg Wanless, was the one who chose Caucasian Chalk Circle. I applied for assistant director after it had already been picked, but Greg and I have discussed the show in great depth. One of the big reasons he chose it was because the playwright, Bertolt Brecht, isn’t often featured in the drama curriculum, and he really wanted to bring that to Queen’s.
I honestly believe it was a fantastic choice for a major production. When I first read the script, I fell in love with it. I’d never seen a major production at Queen’s set in this time period or with this kind of story. It’s such a powerful piece, and the elements we’re adding make it even more unique. One of my professors is now dedicating a lecture to Brecht and the play, which feels like exactly what Greg hoped for when choosing the project.
How has your artistic style shaped the way you approach your role as assistant director on this production?
I believe myself to be more of a realist when it comes to theatre. One of the major components that draws me to theatre is the ability to bring a community together and have everyone in the audience feel a connection and feel something special. What I found through working is that one of the best ways to do that is through realism, because it allows people to connect to the project on a deeper level.
As assistant director, I’m mindful not to overstep, but Greg has been wonderful about welcoming my input. I’ll offer different suggestions to Greg and the cast in terms of tone, body language, facial expressions, and line delivery, and we’ll experiment together to see what sticks best. Incorporating those realistic elements allows the audience to really feel immersed in the performance.
As assistant director, how do you collaborate with the director, actors, and designers to help bring the production to life?
The whole process has been incredible. Greg was one of my professors in my second year, and his class was my favourite, so I was thrilled when I heard he’d be directing the major production. I really respect him and feel so honoured to get the chance to work with him.
It’s been amazing being on set, helping pick fabrics for costumes, and exploring colours and designs… Greg has always valued my input, which means a lot. Working with the actors has also been great, especially since I know many of them personally.
My goal is to help create a positive, collaborative environment where everyone feels included. It’s been wonderful watching the cast have fun with it by playing instruments, singing, and dancing, and those live, creative elements bring such a sense of wholeness and energy to the show.
What do you hope audiences leave thinking or feeling after seeing Caucasian Chalk Circle?
I hope audiences leave with a smile and a warm, fuzzy energy that fills the room. The story has such a pure ending, and I think it offers a wonderful opportunity for people to feel truly connected. What I love about theatre is how you can walk in as strangers and leave feeling like you’ve shared something without ever speaking. In a world that can feel so divided, it’s special to have a space where everyone experiences the same emotions and joy side by side. So my biggest hope is that people walk away feeling a stronger sense of community, a little lighter, and reminded of how powerful it is to come together through art.
Is there anything I haven’t asked that you wish I had? Or something you’d like to share before we wrap up?
Honestly, I’ve had a lovely time working on Caucasian Chalk Circle, and we are not quite at opening yet, but so far the experience has just been incredible. I’ve learned so much through working with Greg, the actors, and everyone involved backstage, and I am just so excited to open it up to the Kingston community and have them see it.
Julia Gehring (she/her) is an active member of the theatre community and has particularly found a passion for acting and directing. She is currently in her 3rd year of Concurrent Education at Queen’s University, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Drama and Art History. Julia is looking forward to combining her love for teaching and theatre to make a difference in the community.
‘Caucasian Chalk Circle’ plays at Theological Hall from November 12-23, 2025. More information can be found here.
