Like anyone, we try to plan ahead. Try.
However, when a project arrives on our doorstep last minute, we do everything within our power to put together a top notch product.
Late Monday we recieved a phone call from a customer hoping to bring two shows to her youth on Wednesday. That's only two days (realistically 1.5) to coordinate schedules with our busy ensemble for a home run performance.
Our actors receive their shows two weeks in advance. Often, when there's less than two weeks notice, their myriad talents are already poured into other projects and thier free time committed to work and family. That said, it's always worth a try... esspecially when the clock is ticking.
I started attacking the phones, but many of our actors were in shows or rehearsals so their phones, naturally, were silenced. I sent out e-mails and received a quick reply from actors filming out of state, boarding planes, teaching summer courses and otherwise unavailable for a show on short notice.
Then, just as I was getting ready to advice the client on show alternatives, it happened. Our artistic director stepped into the facilitator role (facilitation is his passion and it's what he consistently coaches our actors on.) Another actress rescheduled an audition. Suddently we had a cast!
It doesn't always work out when schedules are tight and the turn around is quick. However, it feels great to pack the car for a couple of shows that didn't even exist 24 hours ago!
As always, for more on Imagination Theater, visit www.imaginationtheater.org
-Jeremy Schaefer
No comments:
Post a Comment