So, two shows are in the can, with two left to go. We're always adding things in at the last minute. I keep vowing to not do that the next time. People say that's par for the course, but it makes me too nervous as the production looms closer.
Still, despite the stress, directing kids always ends up with a fun budget in the black. Also personal rewards and stuff. Those outnumber the headaches.
But though it's not been mentioned here, Disco's Dead has opened and plans to close in just one more day. I was privileged to have been asked to direct the 3rd mounting of the production. When someone asked me "again?!" seeing as Family Playhouse had only just performed Disco's Dead 2 years ago, I said, "why not?" The performers love it, and the community seems to embrace it too. We had a near sell-out crowd last night, and we're looking at possibly turning people away at the door tonight. All in all, it's looking like a successful venture. I really should blog the process. It'd be nice to look back to remember what the concerns were from the beginning and how they shaped up now. But that's all done now, so we just get the retrospective.
One of the parents asked me last night what my favorite production was, and I was caught. I couldn't answer. If you asked me what my favorite show was as a performer, it'd be pretty easy: 12th Night. There are loads of other shows I have loved, but I don't think I've enjoyed myself nearly as much as I did while playing Malvolio. Additionally, my cast mates were awesome, and it all just felt really great. But to decide which play I favor out of the shows I've directed. Man, that's tough.
One thing I know for sure though, Alexandria has a surprising amount of talent among its younguns. I was beginning to think I had merely lucked out with my first 2 productions. The right people just turned out to audition and everything fell almost perfectly into place. But now that I'm 3 for 3, I'm convinced there's something in the water. I mean, one kid in Disco's Dead, hasn't performed at all, and like some giant toy from Mattel, he just came right out of the box in (near) perfect condition.
So, how do I decide on a favorite? I don't think I will. Each show has a wonderful collection of great people that bring something unique to each production. One thing about Disco's Dead though, is the sheer amount of volunteer power that has been taken to make it happen. I'm floored by everyone who came out to help it actually occur right up to the last minute. I still need to learn how to wrangle people together, but this time, so many people came forward to do things and make things happen. It's been a truly beautiful example of community theatre at its finest.
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