Saturday, July 17, 2010

A Phenomonon

I call it "Leaving the Theatre While There Is Light In the Sky"

This is the most extraordinary of phenomenons and perhaps only possible during the summer.  Yes, the end of yesterday's rehearsal occurred BEFORE the sun had completely slipped below the horizon.  Spectacular.

The reason this was remotely possible is that I have started my third and final show with New Jersey Shakes.  My other two shows went well considering the small amount of support they are given.  I'm still glad I had a chance to work on those two shows, but it is much simpler now that I'm on a mainstage.  My days are shorter, my cast is smaller (only four actors), and it's amazing to see how quickly notes are addressed -- with notable exceptions of course.  A stage manager's schedule is never truly predictable.  Things come up at the last minute which require us to stay later than planned and finishing our day before the sun finishes it's day is still a remarkable event, but there's a pattern to the daily chores that I've picked up pretty well.  Busy days and long hours, but it's a relief to finally have a straightforward schedule.  And the occasional sunset.

Monday, July 5, 2010

Independence Day

You know those times in life where you just have to do something simply because it's available?  Yesterday, when I finished rehearsal at 6:00 instead of 10:00, it was clear that I needed to go to the fireworks display in Manhattan.  I called up a college friend (Shelly) who is summering in NYC and (as I hoped and suspected) she was meeting a group of people on the roof of an apartment building to watch the show.  I took my first American train ride, Shelly met me at the station, and we got there in perfect time to savor some watermelon and enjoy the fireworks.  As it turned out, we only saw about half the show, specifically the top half, since there were several taller buildings in front of us, but we didn't mind -- it was a beautiful night and we beat the crowds being further out.

It was a simple trip, but great to catch up with Shelly and get away from campus for a bit.  I hope yesterday was a holiday for everyone!