Learning the Show

As a stage manager, you should know everything. For me, the rehearsal process is really about learning the ins and out of the show, and what it will be like to run the show nightly. 

We did a run of Act 1 and I was surprised by two things: 1. I was surprised by how well I already know it. Small run things, like striking the chairs off the table and presetting the bench, I already have memorized. So even after the first run through of the act, I could theoretically run the show without any hitches. Which is a good place to be in. The second thing that surprised me, which is directly related, is how relatively simple the show is. All our rolling pieces, the bed, the ballet bar, the table and chairs, go in and out of the same exit wings (homes essentially). And each piece isn’t used more than twice. In compiling my tracking sheet, I found how easily the show moves from scene to scene. (and it moves fast) Our run time was only 53 minutes, and its sure to tighten up a little bit more once we start running the show in its entirety.

Also what is surprising me the most at this point is how laid back the rehearsal process has been. Most of the musicals I have worked on have been very strenuous, but this one seems to be fluidly going through the motions. Even when possible difficulties arise, like suddenly having major completely changing the day’s rehearsal schedule due to actor conflicts, these incidents seem to easily pass by. We simply make the change and keep chugging forwards. Perhaps it’s a good sign for me, as a stage manager, that I’ve gotten to the point where I can easily problem solve and get things accomplished in an easy going manner, compared to stressing and worrying. 

As I sit through rehearsals, I am also looking ahead and anticipating teching the show. For some songs I’ve already practicing calling cues where I imagine they could be to get used to the rhythm of the show. While tech is often the most challenging aspect of the show for the SM, I am eager to get to that point and learn to call the show. I am also sad already that we only have four performances.