We love introducing you to all of the people who make our programs possible! Today in the Spotlight, get to know one of our newest facilitators. Though he’s new to A.B.L.E., he’s no stranger to directing and facilitating, and has been sharing his Shakespeare acumen and focused energy with our Tuesday ensemble….MEET BEN!
Name: Ben Raanan
Hometown: Skokie, Illinois
Why did you start volunteering with A.B.L.E.?: I’ve been a theatre director for years, especially in my work when I lived in Cincinnati. While there, I was the education director of a company called Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati and spent a lot of my time working with people who were differently abled. When I got to Chicago, I came to an A.B.L.E. show and was blown away by everyone’s talent. I wanted to work with A.B.L.E. so much, and I am so excited to be here!
Ben leads a session at Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
What’s your job when you’re not with us?: I am a student at DePaul University, where I am in my last year of the MFA Directing program. Once I receive my masters, I’ll be looking to be a freelance director in Chicago
What are some of your favorite hobbies?: I am a HUGE Chicago Sports Fans (Bears, White Sox, and Bulls!)
In addition, I love watching WWE wrestling on TV. I was introduced to it by a gentleman that I used to do respite care for I and I fell in love with it’s campiness and the skill set required to do it.
Also…I REALLY like Dinosaurs!
Do you have a secret talent?: I don’t know if it’s a talent, but both of my thumbs are double jointed…and I’m super proud of that fact!
Who is your favorite performer? What do you like about them?: I really dig the television/movie actress Aubrey Plaza. We have the exact same humor, and I love the way she delivers her lines completely deadpan.
If you won a million dollars, what would you do?: I’d open a theatre that focuses on telling the HONEST stories of people who are differently abled…also I’d eat a lot more steak.
What’s your go-to dance party song?: I have so many! At the exact moment I am writing this, it is probably “Truth Hurts” by Lizzo…but that will probably change tomorrow.
Ben busts a move during dance party with our adult ensemble
Anything else we should know about you?: My go to teaching method is a program called The Hunter Heartbeat method. This was started by a famous Shakespearian actress named Kelly Hunter. I’d love the chance to do a workshop with A.B.L.E. and show everyone how the program goes, it is super fun! Once I graduate, I am planning to start teaching it all over town!
I will also be directing a show called The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime at DePaul for my thesis. The show starts rehearsals in March, so expect to see me promoting the show to all of you then!
Last exciting thing to know about me…Jurassic Park is my favorite documentary :)
Can’t wait to continue to meet everyone!!!!!!!!!!!
