Hello All,
Here's the problem: I am PA/Child Guardian during a production of Les Miserables. Because of the set and equipment the kids need to be run to their entrances and picked up after their exits, but I also have normal run crew duties. I can totally run both during a show, however one of the kids in the cast is an old friend of the family and his/her mother likes to come up to me all the time and offer points, suggestions and things to change about the way I work. I suck it up and take it, but she offers suggestions every spare minute she has, even while not at work. I don't mind her wanting to be involved, and am enjoying some constructive critiques but there comes a point, especially during tech and the early run process, where it get's downright irritating. Is there a way to help draw a very clear line between friend and professional relations. i.e. conversations like I don't see why it's such a big deal to ask (stage manager) if such and such child (30 seconds of stage time) can get released before the curtain call. 1 it's not your child I understand where your coming from but if it such an issue I'd rather the parents or guardian of that child come to me. Which was what I responded with in this instance, but the point was pushed until I was just like you sort of have a point I'll bring it up with the SM. I hate to bother the stage manager with questions like these, especially during the technical process. In my opinion she's in the show she's blocked in the curtain call so yes she needs to stay. This has become especially difficult as this lady has become my ride to and from the theatre on more than one occasion because I can't drive yet. What should I do?
Thanks,
Caroline
