He's rather quiet, not a spotlight stealer or one to bring much attention to himself.

In another words, Bryan Anthony is not your stereotypical theater fanatic.

And, despite playing an array of characters, including some at Florida's Disney World, Anthony seems to enjoy his role as director most.

In his fourth year with Stage Right Conservatory Theatre, the Antioch resident just closed the curtain on his 19th production with the company.

His official title is "creative director," but that also covers work as set designer, construction foreman, technical designer and "general Jack of all trades," as he calls it.

The Antioch group is geared for actors 8 to 18 years old. An ambitious troupe, it puts on about five shows a year, including a summer production.

And, this year, there will be a sixth offering. Anthony got his wish to put on a Halloween show in October. (Auditions for "Frankenstein" will be in early September.) The vast majority of the time, Anthony is behind the scenes, but occasionally he'll join his young cast on stage.

"It's become a tradition for me to play Clarence in 'It's a Wonderful Life' during the holiday season."

At 31, Anthony has been involved in theater for more than 20 years and has learned that no show is typical. Still, Stage Right's six-week turnaround from audition to opening night might seem quick.

"As fast as that seems, by the time we get to the final dress

"(Plus,) in working with youth and teen actors, it is important to have a good balance between school, theater and family."

The director likes what acting offers young ones.

"The art of theater is a magical thing for artists of every age. I think it encourages imagination, teamwork, creativity, the ability to think on your toes, and can give people confidence in public speaking. I explain that no matter what kind of a day you have offstage, you can step out of real life and for a couple hours a day and be anyone you want to be on stage."

"He is fabulous with our young actors, and dedicated to putting on amazing productions," said Kami Stiles, co-owner (along with Teresa Bittner) of the 4-year-old theater company. "He is such a perfect fit."

Anthony caught the acting bug early. His first show was as a Holy Rosary School kindergartner.

"We performed a Christmas and spring pageant. I would look forward to those each year."

At 11, he had his community theater debut in "Jack and the Beanstalk."

"Although I had a small part in that one, it was a great steppingstone to launch a career in theater."

With so many past productions, comes a flood of good memories. Some of his most beloved are "(sharing) the stage with ... family members."

In "Jack and the Beanstalk," his uncle, Ferris Anthony (former pro wrestler and now Antioch High teacher), played the giant.

"I've also done a few productions with my brother (Brandon), my dad (Al), among other family and friends."

While theater takes a chunk of his time, the rest is spent at San Francisco's Academy of Art University where he plans to get his bachelor's degree in fashion design.

"My ultimate goal is being a costume designer for movies, stage and live productions."

Contact Trine Gallegos at trineg@att.net.

In our "Neighbors" series, we give you a personal look at the people who are serving your community. If you would like to nominate someone for this column, contact Judy Prieve at 925-779-7178 or e-mail jprieve@bayareanewsgroup.com.