One-Act Wrap Up

First off, I want to say how proud I was of you guys on Saturday. Later Jen Jen and I both commented that we wished we'd taped that first rehearsal so we could see how far our performances had come. We tackled a tough piece, enough said. Plus, Mr. Carter didn't clobber us in the verbal critique, which was a great reward [relief] in itself. He had some pretty constructive suggestions (and isn't that part of the reason we keep doing this theatre thing?). I'd privately hoped for a top 5 place (why not?), especially after seeing the first show -- the one on Prince Charming and marriage counseling (what?). So, even though I don't want to focus on rankings (the idea of competitive, ranked art at the mercy of three random subjective judges rankles me) I was satisfied with our overall result. I know, I know... theatre competes for the Tony, Obie and a slew of other awards. Disliking competitive art is a personal hangup, I suppose. I prefer art for art's sake, with an honest evaluation of the effort and overall performance result.

Nevertheless, we saw some extremely solid productions. The physicality, in-the-moment intense concentration and articulation in the Moliere piece will stick with me for some time (I still think if somebody had to win, it should've been them). I'm still chewing on the Tom Stoppard piece (the orchestra in the asylum), and although I didn't think character development there was as strong as a 2nd place finish demands, I was very impressed with the chorus. How many kids in that show had no lines but still gave the scene on stage their undivided attention? That impressed me ... Who knows? I bet other casts appreciated some of our strengths too.

I am planning to attend the state one-act festival next Thursday; I'd like to see what the top 8 productions in the state look like. I've already got some ideas kicking around for next year...

I took some time to carefully digest the critiques (so Elizabeth's mirror has some basis afterall!) More on that later. (here)

We've decided to temporarily postpone auditions (let's take a week-long break, and allow the kids in Tairy Fales to catch their breath as well). I thought I'd shared that with everybody on the bus, but didn't get a chance to update the calendar. Sorry if it caused any confusion. I am looking forward to starting work on the spring show. Keep in mind that due to the calendar confusion with Prom, Kixters, spring break, Easter weekend and who knows what else, that our production schedule is TWO WEEKS shorter than the fall play. We'll need to commit ourselves right away to successful rehearsals!

Again, great performance, guys. It makes my job -- working with you -- so wonderfully worthwhile.