Messages

1

Employment / Re: Minneapolis Children's Theater

« on: Jul 25, 2008, 11:43 am »

I heard they work you like a dog and sometimes treat you like one.  But the experience and connections you'll get make up for it.  Also heard it's a gateway job into the Guthrie.

2

Stage Management: Plays & Musicals / Re: Pumping up actors

« on: Jul 25, 2008, 11:25 am »

Hello,
So, I find the first tool in concentration/energy boosters is laughter.  It works the diaphragm and clears the mind.  Maybe you could leave an extra 10 minutes or so before the house opens to simply play a warm-up game, bring in a funny story/joke, or anything that evokes some laughter.  If that doesn't exactly sound like your cup of tea, I suggest using your own energy as an SM (because I know I'm usually bursting with adrenaline before calling a show) to bring up the cast to your level.  I also find that talking about the show, such as asking them if they have any questions about cues, gets actors in the correct mindset before house opens.  I definitely feel disconnected from them once I'm in the booth and they're backstage; but you can always use your ASM's to keep an eye on them. 

Hope this helps,
Lindsay