Meridenite of the Week: Tracey Brown

"I just found out I am pregnant with Justin Timberlake's baby. I am also going to be the next Queen of England and I am replacing Lea Michele as Rachel on GLEE effective immediately." 

This was Tracey Brown's status update on her Facebook page Friday...a perfect storm of wishes played out in true April Fool's form. As far fetched as one and two might be (sorry Tracey, you aren't British and Timberlake is mine) the third may just be possible one day for this local acting talent. 

Tracey is a lifelong Meriden resident and has been acting as long as she could speak. With more than 20 years of community theater under her belt, including work with the Castle Craig Players and The Repertory Theater of New Britain, she has no plans to stop the practice of her craft. And her fans wouldn't want it any other way.

Tracey is a model resident, recent home owner and animal activist and takes time out from her busy rehearsal schedule to tell Patch just why she loves her town.

Name: Tracey Brown

Age: 35. Platt High School graduate class of 1994.

How long have you lived in town? All my life!

What do you like best about town? I love that Meriden is centrally located between Hartford and New Haven; it makes getting around so much more convenient. I like that all my family and friends still live close.

What do you like least about town? I wish the downtown area was more developed like the Middletown and West Hartford downtown areas are. I wish we had a better thriving nightlife and restaurant scene and better parking. I truly think Meriden has the potential to be a great downtown destination someday. 

What is your favorite place to shop in town? I definitely still love to shop at the mall for Express and The Limited but I'd have to say Target is my weakness.

What is your favorite place to eat in town? Cucara Mucara Mexican Eatery is right up there with Ruby Tuesdays, Saki Mura and Jade Garden.

What is your favorite place to visit in town? I like to hike, so Hubbard Park and Giuffrida Park are two favorite places to visit. 

What is your fondest memory of town? Some of my favorite childhood memories are from Meriden activities. The fondest include ice skating at Hubbard Park, sledding at the Hunters Golf Course, and the downtown lighting of the Christmas tree in the 80s. In my later years, I had really great times at Maloney's Pub hanging out with friends and watching their bands play. 

What is a recent accomplishment? Last year I chaired a charity event at Ryder's On Main for the Meriden Humane Society and raised $3,300. 

Patch asked Tracey to embellish on her career as a community theater actress: I have been acting in community theater since my late teens and this year will be my twenty something-ish play. I started in high school and moved on to The Castle Craig Players of Meriden and have since extended out to my current playhouse; The Repertory Theater of New Britain. This year we have been on a Neil Simon kick; we recently wrapped up "Rumors" and now I'm about to star as Peggy in "Come Blow Your Horn." Community theater is my passion and hope to encourage people my age and younger to participate in this amazing art form. 

Details on Tracey's Play:

The Repertory Theater of New Britain presents, Neil Simon's "Come Blow Your Horn"

23 Norden Street, New Britain, CT.

April 8th-23rd, Friday and Saturday Night shows starting at 8 pm.

One Sunday Matinee is offered (call theater to find out date.)

Tickets can be purchased at the theater or you can reserve seats in advance by calling 860-223-3147.

Tickets are $20 adults or $15 students/seniors.