The week after Easter, my cast of 24 children will get on stage and present THE MAD ADVENTURES OF MR. TOAD. Some magic is occurring right before our eyes. The kids memorize lines, learn songs and dances and they are given direction from all sides. It’s a lot for them to do since they’re ages are K-5 grade. As I see their characters emerge and their confidence grow, many things are going on behind the scenes.
A vocal director has been teaching the songs within the play and helping them to get the most out of their young voices. Two choreographers have taught them fun and exciting dance moves.
A costumer has prepared many things for them to wear – exciting, funny, sometimes difficult to wear – but necessary to help them define their character.
A prop mistress is gathering interesting things which will enhance the play. One moreit thing for them to learn to deal with, but so important to enhance the production.
Stage managers are getting things off and on stage, maneuvering through children, bumping into things and trying to make the play move seamlessly.
Sound and light folks are preparing for tech week. They’ll be adding microphones, lighting and special effects. Each addition to the play is part of the magic that results.
The artistic designer, his crew and the director have developed a plan for the set – painted flats, scenery, and wonderful accessories like the car you see pictured. The guys seated in it are the ones who made it. You can’t imagine the excitement over this set piece last night. First of all the director (me) was amazed at the reality of Toad’s motor car and it was constructed and painted within just a couple weeks. The kids went ballistic when they saw it.
Next week we go into tech rehearsals. Each new thing that is added to the performance – staging, voice, dance, props, costumes, set pieces, lights, sound all blend together in what will result in a finished product that they can be proud. When the lights come up on opening night, the addition of an audience is what makes it all worth it. That’s when the real magic begins.
I’d love to see it! I love Toad!!
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It’s such a fun show and the kids are wonderful ❤️
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I’m sure, and I love that little car!!
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Isn’t it adorable? All it needs is a motor.❤️
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What fun! My youngest daughter is also in a spring production… of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. J.
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That’s a great show. I’ve seen it several times. Tell her to break a leg
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It’s kind of like how the body of Christ works…each doing his part and it all coming together. Hope it goes well. It sounds like every one is having fun while working hard.
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You know, I often use that analogy when describing team work. It’s a perfect example 😀
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I LOVE Mr. Toad!!!!! What fun! I wish I could come!! ❤ ❤
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We’re almost sold out! I wish you could come too 😜
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Break a leg!
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Thank you.
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I don’t think I have ever mentioned this, but my very first job was actually in a Dinner Theater in Little Rock. My Mom was a waitress there, and before I could work legally, I would go with here and pour water, tea and coffee for the servers and hope they would give a dollar or two. I’d make 5 dollars on a good night LOL. When I was 15 and could get a legal work permit, I was hired to bus tables, do kitchen prep and wash dishes. 40 years later and now I go there as a customer!
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We all have our humble beginnings. I loved show biz from the age of five. Drama queen amongo ❤️
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Ha ha ha
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Drama in education is a powerful thing that all children and teens should have access to. I hope the show went well!
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The show was a success thanks. I’m going to be 76 next week and never tire of this art form. It’s good for kids of all ages😀
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