Hello!

I don’t recall if this has been communicated (it probably has), but if it has not, one thing that would be extremely helpful, starting Saturday, if possible, is to have a parent in the classroom behind the stage to just serve as an adult presence. Usually this job just involves doing crossword puzzles, etc., but you also serve as a first line of defense in case there is a quick crisis. Just between the crisis time and when someone can reach a staff member at the front of house. This is not a show-long commitment, but rather a rotating one. If you are interested, please contact me or Mrs. Shope. Basic, basting-stitch skill is a HUGE plus, as is basic first aid knowledge.

VERY IMPORTANT: The costumes are designed and rented as a whole, internally consistent part of the show. They may not always be intended as high fashion, but that is part of the storytelling, depending on the character and scene. Any on the fly repairs should be basic and reversible. Basting stitch, etc. Ideally, unless it is a performance, a damage costume piece should be hung up. The actor should then report it to me, and to the stage manager, who will inform the costumers. Any costume piece changes will be managed by the costume designer, and so if there is a concern about a specific garment, please let me and the Stage Manager know immediately, and we will talk to the designer about a replacement. However, time is limited and working with a given costume is part of the play building process. Actors sometimes have a tough time with that, so, if you can be aware that those conversations may come up at home, keep all of this in mind.

Actors are also responsible for putting their costumes away as they will have found them. They and their families are responsible for any missing pieces. So, encourage, encourage, encourage.

House opens when the interior curtains of the lobby open up. Usually 30 minutes before curtain. We ask that you stay in the outer lobby prior to this. Although it is extremely tempting to reserve blocks of seats, we have had concerns in the past about massive blocks of seating being claimed before the house even opens. if you can resist this temptation, although it’s understandable, that is requested. Your best bet is to bring a folding chair for yourself to sit towards the front of the lobby and be one of the first towards the doors of the theater to claim seats when the house opens.

Any help that you can lend to make sure that your Actor/crewmember gets as much sleep as possible is greatly appreciated. However, if they are late or absent from a chunk of school, school rules emphasize that they cannot participate in after school activity. There have been many times when this extended to rehearsals. So, at the same time, please know that they need to be attending school, unless they are visibly and measurably, sick, with fever, etc. In that case, help them make wise decisions to stay home. It’s great to have them, showing a lot of enthusiasm and drive, but we have had waves of illness in the past because of actors putting the show first, and it’s exactly as much trouble as you would imagine.

When in doubt, contact me at 865-748-3636, or Mrs. Johnson at Leanne.Johnson@webbschool.org.

Because of the many people involved, and the unpredictable/spontaneous demands of theater, tech and certain rehearsals have a major “hurry up and wait” factor. I ask that you keep in mind this unfortunate truth, and know that we absolutely try to minimize this. if you are ever waiting to give someone a ride, feel free to slip into the theater and watch part of the show. Or all of it!

We will have a limited number of full, printed programs for the actors/crew. Digital programs are available to everyone. QR codes will be posted, and if you aim your cell phone camera at these, a little link should pop up that will take you to the PDF online. If you are unfamiliar with using QR codes, or if you have friends and relatives, who may not know how to use QR codes, ring me up and I will do everything I can to help.

If you respond to this on the blog or hit return on the email, those messages tend to go into the ether. Any responses or questions should be fielded at any time to me at 865-748-3636.

Your understanding and support is one of the most important elements towards a great show at this point. I have no doubt that you are the secret stars of what we are doing, and I appreciate the sacrifices and understanding that you have shown and will contribute between now and closing night. Any questions, any comments? I absolutely am eager to hear from you.

Best,
Patrick McCray