The fall musical is (finally) done! We put on Bye Bye Birdie, which I failed to notice is about 50% longer than last year's musical, Grease. Meaning it was about 50% more work. Like last year, there were times I swore I would never direct a musical at Minneota again given the challenges of directing amidst football and volleyball playoffs and hunting season.
Our football players especially did not like the rehearsals and also claimed they would never do a play again. And then we performed. And it was a hit. And the day after our last performance several of the football players were stopping by my room, texting and emailing, begging to do another show as soon as possible. I was reminded of having a baby - months of misery and exhaustion, followed by the undeniable reality that it all really was worth it in the end!
Elena played the same role that I did (Rosie) when I was in the show 23 years ago. She did an awesome job and was perfect in the role. Her only disappointment was that I wouldn't let her actually slap Albert as I had done in my performances.
Our nephew RJ played the same part as Seth (bartender). Sam was Hugo, a usually boring role that he turned into one if the funniest and most popular characters in the show. When he had to play drunk, he git as close to method acting as he could get without getting drunk by spinning in circles offstage for a minute or so before walking onstage. It was very effective. I stood in for him at rehearsal once and was nauseous for 3 hours.
We had some very talented newcomers, including our nephew, Reed. Ian took a tiny, but fun part and our niece, Laney was in the orchestra. Charlie can't wait to join next year. It's becoming quite the family affair!
The video link is at the bottom.
No comments:
Post a Comment