Stage crew is an often overlooked part of the play experience.
Ever wonder who moves the props? Or coordinates the lights and the sounds? Odds are, no one ever thinks about that, especially when there are flashy and talented actors on stage. This isn’t to garner any pity or sympathy for stage crew, as those with stage fright prefer the more low-key atmosphere. It can even give some the confidence to step from behind the curtain and become a member of the cast.
The club usually begins meeting two to three weeks before opening night of the play. For this fall’s production, Game of Tiaras, this was Oct. 26.
It seems like a short time to make a whole set and props— because it is. Information and plans for stage crew are distributed at the first few meetings. After that, meetings are packed with cutting, painting, and planning until 5 or 6pm.
There’s always something to work on, and the show must go on no matter what happens.
The week of the play, those days become even longer, stretching from the end of the school day until 7 pm.
It isn’t all work and no play, though. As long as some work is being done and there aren’t any issues, stage crew is free to joke around.
These bonds can become strong.
Sophomore Hernan Villanueva said, “I think of the cast and the crew as a second family.”
Those who have been in stage crew often come back each play or musical, showing new members the ropes and ushering them through the chaos.
Stage crew can be difficult and sometimes extremely frustrating, but it’s all worth it in the end. It meshes people who ordinarily would have never met each other into one place and allows them to grow their friendship. The free food provided at the end doesn’t hurt either.
If you are interested in joining stage crew for the spring production, contact Mr. Salgado at [email protected].
