Messages

1

Students and Novice Stage Managers / To Block or Not to Block?

« on: Mar 28, 2008, 03:18 am »

I'm Stage Managing for the first time, and I'm loving every minute of it, but I'm a little frazzled.  It's a production of Godspell on a huge amphitheater stage and a cast of 76.  Do I need to take blocking notes on where everyone is all the time, or can I take general notes when there are just too many people? I'd really appreciate some feedback.  Thanks!

2

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Re: The Ultimate Decision

« on: Mar 28, 2008, 03:05 am »

I had no idea whatsoever.  When I was in eighth grade, my dad informed me that he had filled out an application for a performing arts high school, and asked if I was interested in going.  It didn't matter to me either way, and I knew nothing about the arts or the school.  I had no idea what I was going to do with myself in high school, because I didn't have much confidence or drive.  Fate intervened, and I was chosen by lottery to attend the school, where I spent two years vaguely wishing I had something to do with the mysterious, interesting side of theater, but never taking the initiative and getting involved.

My junior year, I finally did what I had been wanting to do since my first week at school - I took a beginning tech class.  I immediately volunteered to ASM the first show that year, and I spent the next two years volunteering at the local college and the town's community theater.  I did any and every job, but I have always been happiest when ASMing.  I'm now SMing my first show, and I'm absolutely in love with it.

I knew before that I enjoyed theater, but I finally found the thing that I have passion, enthusiasm, and talent for.  It's what I want to do for the rest of my life.