Reaction: Angry
Subterms
WP_Query Object
(
[query] => Array
(
[paged] => 8
[reaction] => angry
)
[query_vars] => Array
(
[paged] => 8
[reaction] => angry
[error] =>
[m] =>
[p] => 0
[post_parent] =>
[subpost] =>
[subpost_id] =>
[attachment] =>
[attachment_id] => 0
[name] =>
[pagename] =>
[page_id] => 0
[second] =>
[minute] =>
[hour] =>
[day] => 0
[monthnum] => 0
[year] => 0
[w] => 0
[category_name] =>
[tag] =>
[cat] =>
[tag_id] =>
[author] =>
[author_name] =>
[feed] =>
[tb] =>
[meta_key] => _whp_hide_on_archive
[meta_value] =>
[preview] =>
[s] =>
[sentence] =>
[title] =>
[fields] => all
[menu_order] =>
[embed] =>
[category__in] => Array
(
)
[category__not_in] => Array
(
)
[category__and] => Array
(
)
[post__in] => Array
(
)
[post__not_in] => Array
(
)
[post_name__in] => Array
(
)
[tag__in] => Array
(
)
[tag__not_in] => Array
(
)
[tag__and] => Array
(
)
[tag_slug__in] => Array
(
)
[tag_slug__and] => Array
(
)
[post_parent__in] => Array
(
)
[post_parent__not_in] => Array
(
)
[author__in] => Array
(
)
[author__not_in] => Array
(
)
[search_columns] => Array
(
)
[post_type] => Array
(
[0] => post
[1] => snax_quiz
[2] => snax_poll
)
[orderby] => date
[order] => DESC
[meta_compare] => NOT EXISTS
[ignore_sticky_posts] =>
[suppress_filters] =>
[cache_results] => 1
[update_post_term_cache] => 1
[update_menu_item_cache] =>
[lazy_load_term_meta] => 1
[update_post_meta_cache] => 1
[posts_per_page] => 36
[nopaging] =>
[comments_per_page] => 40
[no_found_rows] =>
[taxonomy] => reaction
[term] => angry
[plugin_required_notice_slot_id] => Before content theme area
)
[tax_query] => WP_Tax_Query Object
(
[queries] => Array
(
[0] => Array
(
[taxonomy] => reaction
[terms] => Array
(
[0] => angry
)
[field] => slug
[operator] => IN
[include_children] => 1
)
)
[relation] => AND
[table_aliases:protected] => Array
(
[0] => wpsu_term_relationships
)
[queried_terms] => Array
(
[reaction] => Array
(
[terms] => Array
(
[0] => angry
)
[field] => slug
)
)
[primary_table] => wpsu_posts
[primary_id_column] => ID
)
[meta_query] => WP_Meta_Query Object
(
[queries] => Array
(
[0] => Array
(
[key] => _whp_hide_on_archive
[compare] => NOT EXISTS
)
[relation] => OR
)
[relation] => AND
[meta_table] => wpsu_postmeta
[meta_id_column] => post_id
[primary_table] => wpsu_posts
[primary_id_column] => ID
[table_aliases:protected] => Array
(
[0] => wpsu_postmeta
)
[clauses:protected] => Array
(
[wpsu_postmeta] => Array
(
[key] => _whp_hide_on_archive
[compare] => NOT EXISTS
[compare_key] => =
[alias] => wpsu_postmeta
[cast] => CHAR
)
)
[has_or_relation:protected] =>
)
[date_query] =>
[queried_object] => WP_Term Object
(
[term_id] => 564
[name] => Angry
[slug] => angry
[term_group] => 0
[term_taxonomy_id] => 564
[taxonomy] => reaction
[description] =>
[parent] => 0
[count] => 581
[filter] => raw
)
[queried_object_id] => 564
[request] => SELECT SQL_CALC_FOUND_ROWS wpsu_posts.ID
FROM wpsu_posts LEFT JOIN wpsu_term_relationships ON (wpsu_posts.ID = wpsu_term_relationships.object_id) LEFT JOIN wpsu_postmeta ON ( wpsu_posts.ID = wpsu_postmeta.post_id AND wpsu_postmeta.meta_key = '_whp_hide_on_archive' )
WHERE 1=1 AND (
wpsu_term_relationships.term_taxonomy_id IN (564)
) AND (
wpsu_postmeta.post_id IS NULL
) AND ((wpsu_posts.post_type = 'post' AND (wpsu_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wpsu_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')) OR (wpsu_posts.post_type = 'snax_poll' AND (wpsu_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wpsu_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')) OR (wpsu_posts.post_type = 'snax_quiz' AND (wpsu_posts.post_status = 'publish' OR wpsu_posts.post_status = 'acf-disabled')))
GROUP BY wpsu_posts.ID
ORDER BY wpsu_posts.post_date DESC
LIMIT 252, 36
[posts] => Array
(
[0] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26784
[post_author] => 639
[post_date] => 2017-11-23 12:35:04
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-23 17:35:04
[post_content] => The holidays are fast approaching, and this season is a great time to reflect on all the things we were thankful for over the past year. Luckily for theatre fans, it’s been a year full of many memorable moments and events in the theatre world.
One major thing we were thankful for this year was seeing the return of Broadway royalty. From Bette Midler and Patti LuPone to Billy Porter returning to his Tony Award-winning role as Lola in “Kinky Boots,” this year saw the return of some major star power. It’s years like these we rejoice for the kings and queens of Broadway.
Remember last year when it was a huge deal “She Loves Me” live-streamed online? This year, we got to see so many more shows from the cheapest seat possible: our couch. For some time now, there has been a debate of whether streaming shows ruins the theatrical experience. However, what these captures have done is make high-quality Broadway shows accessible to people all over the world. With a bunch of shows filmed just this past year, including “Falsettos” and “Present Laughter,” let’s hope this surge in streaming shows continues.
It’s hard to pinpoint just one reason to be thankful for this amazing actor. This was truly his year, since he made “Dear Evan Hansen” one of the top-selling shows on Broadway, won his first Tony Award, guest-starred on “Will and Grace” and has an original album in the works. It’s tough that he’s leaving Broadway this month, but we’ll definitely be watching to see what this talented guy does next.
This Broadway-Themed coloring collection makes the perfect stocking stuffer and will be sure to start many conversations with fellow Broadway-Nerds. The creative and clever crayons, pencils, & coloring pages are filled with puns and themes from their respective shows.
Current themes are Hamilton, Les Mis, & a general Broadway set. Maybe some coloring is exactly what you need during the stressful holiday season. Check out the Entire Collection HERE
Written by Justin Paul & Steven Levenson, 'Through The Window' takes you behind the scenes of the hit musical. A fascinating deep dive into the story and evolution of the project. Bibliophiles and die-hard fans are sure to enjoy learning more about this special show. Get your hardcover copy HERE
This collection is inspired by a key message and theme in the show. The design is available in tees, hoodies, mugs, totes, and jewelry. See the entire collection HERE
Hand-hammered jewelry that has simple yet inspiring messages from the show. An understated way to show your Hamil-Pride. See the collection HERE
This board game is for total Broadway nerds. Start at acting school and work your way up to the great white way in this showbiz strategy game. Buy on Amazon HERE
For many of us, showers are 90% showtunes, and 10% washing. This hilarious shower curtain ensures the message gets to family and roommates. Comes in clothing also. See collection HERE
A thespian adventure book about an aspiring actor, jazz hands & NYC in the 1980s. Pretty much the perfect read while chestnuts are roasting on an open fire. Get the book on Amazon HERE
Shower curtain too...big? These mask charms are a the perfect way to show your thespian pride in an elegant and quaint fashion. Buy individual or as a set. See them HERE
Theatre Is My Sport, enough said! See the collection HERE
See all stickers HERE
These adorable onesies are perfect for the Thespian in training. See the collection HERE
[post_title] => Theatre Nerds' 2017 Holiday Gift Guide [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => theatre-nerds-2017-holiday-gift-guide [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-17 02:13:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-17 06:13:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=26766 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 26751 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-11-20 10:44:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-20 15:44:15 [post_content] => Many in the Broadway world first came to know James Corden through his work on the stage. Corden made his mark on the West End and Broadway in the early 2000s playing Timms in “The History Boys.” Both a Tony Award winner and host, Corden now has a steady gig as the host of “The Late Late Show,” where he repeatedly reminds audiences he hasn’t lost his musical theatre roots. A popular recurring segment on Corden’s talk show is his cabaret--style performances of select Broadway musicals on the streets of Los Angeles. The musical scenes by the actors are almost as hilarious as the reactions of those caught at the stoplight. Here is our ranking of Corden’s crosswalk musical moments:
Everyone’s time is precious. Be respectful of schedules and be on time when you’re called. Waiting for someone who is late can push back other important commitments and to-do’s required by the creative team, or even just make someone else late for another endeavor. Remember this mantra: Early is on time, on time is late and late means you’ll never be hired again.
Did you need to learn your lines? Did you need to do research before your next meeting and rehearsal, but time just got away from you? Truly, there are no excuses for being unprepared. The creative team hired you to be onstage or behind-the-scenes because they trusted you would bring to the project the work you said you’d do. Don’t hold them back by being unprepared once it’s time to come together with them. This also includes asking questions you could have answered yourself by conducting a Google search, reading the script or taking a trip to the library.
You committed to the project and schedule, but then decided to take a last-minute, more lucrative audition or a potential meeting for a bigger project that would force you to be less available than you initially let on. It’s one thing to have a doctor’s appointment, catch the flu or have a short meeting or audition for a future gig that takes you away for a short amount of time. However, to willingly not uphold your original commitment of allotted time for a better opportunity or last-minute day job is just tacky and unprofessional. Not to mention, it could also put a dent in the scheduled events and rehearsals that need to happen to mount the production.
Whether you’re an actor, designer or other personnel, you were hired to do that specific job. So please keep in mind that an actor does not need to give notes to another actor (that is the director’s job), and the costume designer should not interfere with the lighting design, unless it involves coordinating colors or matching aesthetic. Stick to your job, and the creative team will stick with you.
You shouldn’t waste the time of the creative team by auditioning for their shows or pitching them work if it’s something you’re not right or qualified for. Everyone’s time is limited. Thus, when a creative team spends hours and hours trying to find the perfect person for their project, it’s definitely not the right way to make a first impression. In actuality, it could leave a devastating mark that prevents them from considering you in the future when you are actually the perfect match for their project.
The art of putting together a production is indeed a collaborative effort. Everyone involved must be willing to collaborate within the realm of their duties. It’s detrimental to the process if you are too set in your ways about how the look should work or don’t take other people’s visions into account. Remember, collaboration is the key to success.
Social media is a huge outlet for letting others know about what is going on in the world. Take the time to promote the projects you are in. It benefits everyone, and let’s face it, we can all use help from each other in this realm.
Being on your cell phone during rehearsals and meetings and distracted by non-work-related texts and emails is a big no-no. When you are in with the creative team, be present, available and ready to work. Leave your phone for later, or step outside if you have to take an emergency call.
Last, make sure to stay on schedule and keep up with your deadlines. Putting on a production means a building block of steps must occur. Make sure to stick to deadlines so every part of the creative process can be carried out without a hitch.
What is for dinner for the next couple of months? Say goodbye to a regular eating schedule, and pack yourself an extra bag of almonds. This may be a short rehearsal, or you may not leave until it’s dark out. Good luck!
Your friend just won a contest to see Idina Menzel, and the concert is on Wednesday night! Too bad there’s no way you can make it.
These days, it’s likely you’re in one of two camps: the camp that’s still recovering from the nonstop chorus of six-year-old girls singing “Let It Go” and the camp that continues to worship this Idina Menzel-led masterpiece. Either way, hits such as “The Lion King” have shown us that Disney goes big on Broadway, and this is one production you won’t want to miss.
What do you get when you combine Lea Salonga, Phillip Boykin, Alex Newell and a whole slew of other talented cast members? The Broadway production of “Once on This Island” that is sailing to Broadway this winter. The timely story chronicles two young lovers who fight against prejudice and all odds.
If you’re still obsessing over Steven Pasquale in “The Bridges of Madison County” (because who isn’t listening to “It All Fades Away” on repeat?), it’s time to rejoice! He is returning to the Broadway Stage in Lincoln Center Theater’s debut of “JUNK,” a play based on the life of Robert Merkin, “America’s Alchemist.” Check out this modern money thriller in November!
Jimmy Buffett + Broadway = this musical escape to Margaritaville. The show will include some of Buffett’s classic tunes, such as “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Volcano.” This musical is under the direction of Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley (“Come From Away,” “Memphis”). February is your chance to take a tropical vacation to the Marquis Theatre.
This season, fall doesn’t just bring pumpkin spice lattes — it also introduces a unique solo show playing at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The legendary Bruce Springsteen makes his Broadway debut in a production of incomparable musical storytelling. Is there anything more we can say?
With a book by Tina Fey and a stellar creative team behind the scenes, this musical adaptation of the iconic 2004 movie is sure to be SO fetch. The Broadway cast has yet to be announced, but previews will include Erika Henningsen as Cady and Taylor Louderman, Kate Rockwell and Ashley Park as The Plastics.
Anyone who isn’t a diehard fan of the TV show might be wondering what Bikini Bottom’s favorite sponge is doing in the middle of New York City. However, the musical’s pre-Broadway engagement garnered rave reviews and is sure to capture new audiences with its fun, feel-good story, spectacular music and memorable characters.
Acclaimed director Bartlett Sher has brought to life beautiful revivals of “South Pacific,” “The King and I” and other classic shows. In 2018, he’ll bring a new generation of theatre-goers the beloved Lerner and Loewe musical, “My Fair Lady.” If it’s a traditional yet larger-than-life night of theatre you’re looking for, make sure to book your tickets to this show.
The magic of the Wizarding World hits the Broadway stage this spring! J.K. Rowling’s latest installment, co-written by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, follows the story of Harry and friends in their adult years as they take on their most difficult task yet: parenthood. Harry’s son, Albus, is the focus of the story, alongside a number of familiar faces from the original series.
As one of the best rom-coms in Hollywood history, Garry Marshall’s “Pretty Woman” was almost dedicated to make its way to the Broadway stage sooner or later. The new musical will star Samantha Barks (Eponine in the 2012 film version of “Les Misérables”) and Steve Kazee (“Once” on Broadway).
What Broadway musical are you most excited for? Share in the comments below!
[post_title] => 10 Broadway-Bound Shows Every Theatre Nerd Should Know About
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 10-broadway-bound-shows-every-theatre-nerd-know
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-10-23 10:01:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-23 14:01:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12111
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[16] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12057
[post_author] => 1
[post_date] => 2017-10-18 09:40:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-18 13:40:55
[post_content] => 
Not every musical movie is actually set on a stage, but this high-energy show is taped inside a theatre. It’s chock-full of amazing choreography and features original members of the Broadway cast. This Netflix watch is about as close your couch can get to sitting in a New York City theatre.
In similar fashion, we’re happy to report you can still stream this fairy tale of ogre-ish proportions. It stars Broadway names such as Brian d’Arcy James and Sutton Foster and ties in nicely with the creepy, crawly Halloween season. Be warned: This fantastical musical is more silly than spooky!
She really is a funny girl, that Belle! The live action film featuring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens is one of Netflix’s newest additions. While this latest version may differ from the theatrical productions of “Beauty and the Beast,” it still includes iconic tunes such as “Be Our Guest” and “Something There.” It’s the perfect movie musical when you need a little Disney magic.
While this Russian royal currently graces the Great White Way, she also reigns on Netflix in this beloved 1997 animated feature. Rom-com queen Meg Ryan lends her voice to Princess Anastasia, with actor John Cusack voicing cartoon heartthrob Dmitri. Pregame for your trip to the Broadhurst Theatre with this musical masterpiece.
The year is 1924, and the merry murderesses of Cook County Jail are fierce and fabulous — mostly because they’re shimmying to the “Cell Block Tango,” “Roxie” and “I Can’t Do It Alone.” Pop some popcorn and experience glitz and glamor in this screen adaptation.
Summer lovin’ happened so fast — and now it’s fall. However, you can still sing along to this Netflix stream if you’re in the mood for some greased lightning. Celebrate the back-to-school season with Danny, Sandy, Rizzo and the rest of the students from Rydell High.
Experience a modern tale of love and loss featuring Broadway’s own Jeremy Jordan and Hollywood starlet Anna Kendrick. “The Last Five Years” touches on relatable relationship issues and showcases heartfelt songs (penned by Jason Robert Brown”) that you’ll be humming all day long.
Autumn often means the return of homework, studying and midterms. Get your head in the game for school (or work) by relieving this melodious Disney Channel original. Go Wildcats!
It may only be October, but it won’t be long until the holiday season arrives. If you’re counting down the days until Christmas, why not tune into this Irving Berlin classic? There’s snow reason not to.
While I loved the music, it took me roughly three weeks to get “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” out of my head. Whether I was getting ready, at work or sleeping, I was entrapped by the catchy tune. Imagine singing it eight times a week for a year? Yep, I’d go crazy. That’s definitely some musical theatre overload.
If you didn’t already know, “Cats” is an incredibly dance-heavy show. From flips to turns to every trick in the book, it’s one of the most physical shows on Broadway. Yet somehow, each cat’s extensive makeup stays intact throughout the entire production. Literally, how? It must be some of that Broadway magic.
Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer have one of my absolute favorite numbers in the show. And while the thieving duo are quite similar, they both have their quirks. The question on hand is, am I a Mungojerrie or a Rumpleteazer? Either way, nothing’s as fun as a mischievous evening in the junkyard.
Much like “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” Grizabella’s eleven o’clock number, “Memory,” is one of the most memorable songs of the musical. While it’s a gorgeous tune, I once again found myself stuck with her shrieks for love running through my ears wherever I went. At this point, I’ve accepted my fate. I am turning into a “Cats” jukebox.
‘Nuff said.
At the end of the show, one of the cats is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer to start its new life. Confusing? Yes. But the real question is, where exactly is the Heaviside Layer? Heaven? The North Pole? Who really knows?
Seriously, though. “Cats” is an incredibly demanding show. My knees were aching from just watching it. While all Broadway dancers have to take care of their bodies, the actors in “Cats” take a healthy living to a whole new level. Shoutout to them.
Please, Andrew Lloyd Webber. There’s truly nothing I want more.
Mara Jill Herman has worked Off-Broadway and has toured nationally in “Jesus Christ Superstar” and internationally through “Disney on Classic” in Japan and cruise ships. Here’s her advice for auditions:
“Take risks in auditions! It’s OK to gender-bend if the story you’re telling evokes your desired character. Changing the lyrics to a well-known song can also help display your comedic chops and land you a callback or ultimate booking. But, be respectful and know your audience!”
Christopher McGovern is an award-winning writer, librettist, composer, lyricist, pianist, musical director and arranger, CD producer and educator. His current credits include libretto/original songs and arrangements for the regional hits “Lizzie Borden,” “Backwards in High Heels,,” “Cagney” (which can currently be seen at the El Portal Theatre in Los Angeles) and “Dr. Radio, among others. He also did music and lyrics for the “Let the Memories Begin” castle projection show at U.S. Disney parks. He’s also done extensive concert work with many artists, including Roslyn Kind, Jason Graae, Liz Callaway, Karen Mason and Tony nominees Susan Egan, Christiane Noll, Charles Busch and Alison Fraser. Here’s his advice:
“Sing a selection appropriate to the score for which you are auditioning, and sing it in your own unique voice. Your storytelling and your vocal chops are both important. Be a musician, and don’t ‘skrelt’ at us. And, for god’s sake, never ‘snap’ the tempo to your accompanist — they might just happen to be the composer of the show.”
Seth Bisen-Hersh has completed the score for “Trivial Pursuits” (music), “Meaningless Sex” (music/lyrics), “The Spickner Spin” (music/co-lyrics), “More to Love” (music/lyrics), “Stanley’s Party” (music/lyrics) and “Love Quirks” (music/lyrics). He has played for Broadway auditions and hundreds of Off-Broadway, LORT, summer stock, cruise line, reading, workshop and festival auditions. Furthermore, he has been musically directing and accompanying cabarets, readings and showcases in the city since 2003. Here’s what he had to say about auditions:
“Don’t be a character — be yourself. Choose a likeable, optimistic, upbeat comic (unless you’re going in for something truly unfunny) number. I know it’s hard, but the reasons for casting people are so arbitrary and subjective, the best thing to do is go in, have as much fun as possible and then forget you had an audition.”
Rebecca Larkin has been seen on Broadway in “South Pacific” and “Avenue Q,” as well as in TV, film, regional theatre and cruise ships. She also coaches musical theatre performers. Here’s her advice:
“Find a 16-bar cut of what you do best (your favorite style, something that makes people laugh, shows off your money notes, breaks their hearts, whatever makes you light up because you love doing it) and try to use it as often as possible. They want to see you be great at something more than they need the absolute perfect song. Of course, don’t bring legit to a ‘Hamilton’ audition, but within reason, many styles do overlap each other.
“Practice your audition piece in the shoes and outfit you plan on wearing. Different heels can change where you put your weight. Figuring out you inadvertently suck in your stomach in a certain dress is better to find out at home rather than in the room when you suddenly run out of air mid-note. The fewer surprises in there, the better!”
Chris Giordano’s national tour credits include “Broadway Christmas Wonderland” and “The Berenstain Bears Live!” and he has many regional performing credits as well. As a teaching artist and a member of the Educational Theatre Association, he has taught theatre classes with Inside Broadway, AMDA’s High School Summer Conservatory, Kidville, Brooklyn Acting Lab, Camp Broadway, the Boys and Girls Club, the Putney School Summer Program in Vermont and many public schools. He is the current managing director of Theatre Now New York and produced Sound Bites 4.0, a festival of 10-minute musicals at the Signature Theatre. His advice?
“Make sure [you make] at least one bold choice, whether [it’s] the song you sing or acting beat.”
As I grew up, this translated itself more tangibly in my choice of crushes both onstage and offstage. Developing a crush on someone I was acting with in a show was a pretty regular occurrence. For further proof, check out my article, “ What I Learned From My First Showmance.”
The problem was, much like my Mirkwood fantasy man, I found myself attracted to the character and not the person behind it. It’s so easy to fall for a created character, especially if the actor portrays him or her in a relatable way that strikes a chord with the audience. Character lust can easily be confused for a real crush, and those of us onstage are even more susceptible to it.
Worried this might be happening to you? Here are some ways to tell if your crush is real or fictional:
Real Crush: Their actual name.
Character Lust: Their character’s name. That was an easy one.
Real Crush: Going to the movies, dinner, bowling or other real-world activities.
Character Lust: Hanging out at the theatre. You are both there at the same time. It’s practically a date.
Real Crush: You know their favorite color and birthday.
Character Lust: Their costume is blue, so that must be their favorite color right?
Real Crush: You get jealous when you hear someone else is into them.
Character Lust: You get jealous when they act romantically onstage with their written love interest (who is married in real life).
Real Crush: You imagine both of you together.
Character Lust: You imagine your characters together.
Real Crush: You get butterflies every time they flirt with you.
Character Lust: You get butterflies every time they say their lines.
Real Crush: You like seeing them in different roles.
Character Lust: You can’t imagine them playing anyone else.
via GIPHY
Real Crush: They have their flaws, but you like them anyway.
Character Lust: They are perfect, and no one else can compare!
Real Crush: They look good in anything.
Character Lust: They should just wear that costume. All the time. So hot.
The good news for you is that there is a cure to help you get over your fictional love. You are crushing on that character because they hold the qualities of what you are looking for in a real-life love. Ask yourself what it is you like about that character and what attracts you to them. Make a list, and use that to help you find someone with those attributes. My attraction to elven hero Legolas can be in part traced back to my love for adventure and a man who isn’t afraid to be daring. And having beautiful hair doesn’t hurt, either.
The key here is not to be afraid of your feelings. Embrace them for what they are, and use them to improve your actual love life. Who knows? You might even find a love story worthy of the stage.
In addition to a bead worker, other dressers are employed to do daywork in order to prepare and check the costumes before a performance. They ensure they look as pristine as they did on opening night.
Ironing, steaming and minor repairs are all allowed. The costumes are meticulously checked for any damage and are repaired onsite. Anyone who wants to be employed as a dayworker needs to have at least basic sewing skills and be able to sew small rips and buttons, among other things.
A stitcher is also onsite during daywork and sometimes during showtimes. This is a dresser who is a whiz with a sewing machine. It’s also helpful if this person can do pattern-making, use a serger and operate other applicable instruments. Stitchers will repair more difficult and larger rips and holes in costumes. They may also do alterations to costumes if a new actor or swing/understudy is going in the show.
During daywork, a dresser who knows how to repair and keep shoes looking like new is also employed. Shoes take a beating from everyday wear and tear and hardcore dancing, so the shoe person can give shoes a fresh coat of paint/polish, check for repairs, replace or fix any rubber or hardware and/or take the shoes to a local cobbler for a more involved fix.
These tracks usually require extra-special care, and star dressers will sometimes act as a special assistant, guest greeter and more in addition to helping carry out the costume changes with his or her actress. Many times, a star of a show will take their star dresser with them from show to show, since they are familiar with their work and have a good rapport. If you are meticulous and a people-person, this is a great job for you!
Theatre is a collaborative art form, and it takes a cast of thousands onstage and offstage working together as a team to make a show go off without a hitch.
Life Lesson: Be sure to include teamwork in your real life, whether it’s in another career endeavor, playing a sport, relationships, family or even achieving life goals. There’s no need to go it alone. So much can be achieved with a little help from a friend, colleague or mentor.
If you can’t problem-solve, you certainly can’t work backstage. You must not be afraid to fix an issue quickly when sets, costumes and props break or something else goes amiss.
Life Lesson: Bring this type of problem-solving into your real life. Take initiative to act quickly to fix things when they go wrong, whether it be at home, at school or at a job.
Who says you can’t do two things at once? How about three or four? How about doing a quick change with an actor while presetting another change for a different actor and safety-pinning a rip in a third actor’s costume? Think this hasn’t happened? Think again!
Life Lesson: Multitasking not just backstage can help you achieve goals faster, use your time more wisely and get so many things done. Even your parents will be impressed!
Trusting your instincts while you are problem-solving backstage is imperative when you only have 30 seconds for a quick change or a very short blackout. The show won’t stop to fix a mishap!
Life Lesson: Remembering to listen to your inner voice will always be the right choice, whether you’re choosing the right audition song, picking your future college/university or aiming to make a big life decision.
Doing theatre means working closely with everyone onstage and backstage for long hours. Creating a positive working environment is a must and is the direct result of everyone being nice to one another despite individual idiosyncrasies.
Life Lesson: Remembering to be nice to everyone no matter your environment will bring you many friends, supportive teachers, mentors and colleagues who will help guide and support you throughout your life journey.
Looking at the other guy hooking up a microphone while you’re handling a costume emergency may make you think he has the easiest job in the world. Think again! What if that mic goes out or is positioned in such a way that the sound doesn’t work correctly?
Life Lesson: No one’s job is easy. Reminding yourself that everyone has challenges and obstacles to overcome can help you when you’re struggling. You are not alone.
Theatre is exhausting, and rest is imperative to ensure you are at your best so the show can go off smoothly.
Life Lesson: If you don’t get enough sleep before that big test, upcoming audition or even a vacation, you won’t have as much fun or be able to fully enjoy the experience or carry it out with vigor. Take your time to treat yourself kindly and get some zzz’s to recharge your battery.
1. Avoid picking a song from the show for which you are auditioning. Choose something that showcases your vocals and acting ability.
2. Come prepared with everything they’ve asked for and more. Having a second song ready can be helpful, just in case.
3. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. It will help steady your nerves.
4. If there is a dance audition, make sure you have proper attire and don’t hide in the back. They can’t cast you if they can’t see you.
5. Don’t let the talent of the other auditionees psyche you out. You never know what the creative team is looking for, and it might be something you have!
1 Show up on time. This cannot be stressed enough. You are a part of a team. Being late without an exceptional reason gives the impression you feel your time is more valuable than others’.
2. If you are sick or can’t make it, be sure to contact your director. They don’t need to waste rehearsal time tracking you down. If you are an integral part of that session’s rehearsal, they might use the advance notice to alter the rehearsal and work on something else instead.
3. When you miss a rehearsal, take the initiative to find out what you missed and get caught up before the next rehearsal.
4. Always have a pencil on hand. You will need to jot down stage directions and notes as they happen. Don’t leave it until the end of rehearsal, or you may forget things. The creative team will be annoyed if they have to tell you a second time.
5. Whether you’re playing the leading role or a mute tree, give it 100 percent. Every person who is part of the show is integral to the finished product. If you want to earn larger roles, show the creative team you can handle more by being the best at whatever you’re given and doing it with a smile.
6. There will be regulars and already established friend groups. Don’t let it intimidate you. If it does, find other newbies in the cast and start there. Then, get to know everyone as you work on scenes together. Just being friendly and saying hello goes a long way.
7. Another way to bond with members of the production and get involved is to help out with backstage tasks when you have downtime. Making props, helping build or strike the set, marking up the floor or even just tidying up the stage or rehearsal space are all good options.
8. Every production has drama going on backstage and onstage. Try to stay out of it. If you find yourself involved, diffuse the situation to the best of your ability. Keeping the group as cohesive as possible will ensure the best performance onstage.
9. In some companies or groups, you will be required to provide your costumes. Establish that as early as you can and start hunting for those perfect pieces. Don’t leave it to the last minute, or you may end up disappointed.
10. If you are responsible for getting your own costumes, be sure the director approves of all your choices. Don’t wait for them to see the costumes onstage during dress rehearsal. If they tell you what you chose isn’t going to work, you’ll be left scrambling at the last minute.
11. You will be expected to practice and review on your time. Showing up to a rehearsal unprepared is unfair to your fellow castmates and the creative team. Block out a small pocket of time a few times a week to go over what you’ve learned.
12. Ask questions if you are confused or need something repeated. Don’t be embarrassed — someone else may have the same question and is also afraid to speak up. Giving a poor performance will be far more embarrassing, so get clarification if you need it.
13. If you have a conflict, speak to that person directly, if you can, or take it to the director. Avoid spreading gossip at all costs. The worst thing you can do is talk to someone else in the cast. The more people involved, the bigger the problem gets.
14. Don’t take constructive criticism of your performance personally. A lot of first-timers will get upset if the director or choreographer corrects them or asks them to change what they’re doing. They are just trying to make the show the best it can be, and their approach may not be the same as yours. Keep your chin up, listen to what they are saying and take everything in stride.
15. Make sure you warm up before every rehearsal. There may not always be time to warm up as a group, so leave yourself a few moments to stretch your limbs and vocal chords.
16. Keep the diva moments to a minimum. Respectfully voicing your ideas to members of the creative time is fine, but it’s ultimately up to them to decide how the show is put on.
17. It is good to try new things and grow as an artist, but if you are really uncomfortable with something, speak to the director about it. Most are very accommodating and will do their best to rework it.
18. Be patient. There will be a fair bit of standing around and waiting for others. Keeping a positive attitude will help maintain a pleasant and creative environment.
1. Tech week is grueling. Go into it with that in mind, and you will avoid an unpleasant surprise.
2. Be patient. There are a lot of elements at play, and everyone is tired and on edge. Emotions run very high during this period, and a little bit of patience can go a long way toward avoiding a major incident.
3. Stay positive. Tech week rehearsals are notorious for having everything go wrong that can, but 99 percent of the time, it all turns out okay in the end.
4. Stay focused. There will be a lot going on, and this is when injuries can happen. Adding set pieces, costumes, props, lighting and sound can cause a lot of confusion. There will be people everywhere. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t get distracted by what others are doing.
5. Do everything you can to stay healthy. The stress, rehearsals and physical demands will take their toll on you. Be preventative by doing things that keep you relaxed, drinking lots of water, resting when you can, taking vitamins and staying warm.
6. Do not schedule anything social during this week. You will not make it to that. Tech week is very demanding, and adding commitments will just add to your stress.
7. Keep your area of the dressing room as neat and organized as you can. Quick changes are a recipe for lost items, so try to have designated places for your things. A storage container for makeup and hair items, a bag for shoes, a bag for laundry, your own hangers and clothing bag for costumes and a general bag or suitcase to store it all in can be beneficial.
8. Make sure you label all your things with your name or initials. That way, if they are misplaced, you’re more likely to recover them.
9. Bring your own small mirror. There are never enough mirrors for everyone, and you’ll need one.
10. Always have water on hand. It gets extremely warm onstage and in dressing rooms, and the last thing you want is to pass out or get sick from dehydration.
11. If you can, do as much preparation at home before you go to the theatre. It will help you stay relaxed among the backstage frenzy.
1. Invite your friends and family as soon as you know the date of the show. Booking people ahead of time will ensure you have some friendly faces in the crowd to give you that extra energy during the performance.
2. Promote your show as much as you can. Tell everyone you know and advertise it on your social media. The more people there are in seats, the better it is for the group.
3. If something goes wrong or you mess up, don’t let it break your focus. Treat it like it was intentional and keep going. It’s unlikely the audience will even realize or remember.
4. Give every performance as much energy as opening night. Most people in the crowd will be seeing the show for the first time and deserve the best performance possible.
5. Keep track of your cues. It’s easy to get distracted backstage, and there’s nothing worse than an angry stage manager tracking you down.
6. Treat your backstage crew with respect. They are the unsung heroes of every show, work just as hard as the cast onstage and are often unrecognized for their contributions. Be sure to thank them when you see them around.
7. Don’t eat in your costume. If your stage manager finds out, you’ll live to regret it.
8. Use the bathroom before the show starts and at intermission. It sounds silly, but it can mess up your focus if you need to go. Plus, trying to go to the restroom with your costume on can be really tough.
9. Nerves are completely normal and expected. Try to channel that energy into each performance. Keep yourself from freaking out by taking everything one step at a time, one scene at a time. Breaking it down into smaller chunks will make it less frightening and more manageable.
10. Don’t freak out if the audience doesn’t laugh or react when they are expected to. Some audiences are more reactive than others. It doesn’t mean they didn’t find it funny or enjoyable — they might just be more reserved theatergoers.
11. When it’s all over, be sure to thank everyone involved. Appreciation is always remembered.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of community theatre, but before you know it, the show will close its last performance. Whether it’s your first show or your 20th, try to enjoy each moment and each experience for what it is: pure magic.
The Golden Age (anything from 1940 to the 1960s) is a musical era you must have in your book. Ideally, you’d have at least one Rodgers and Hammerstein song in there.
For this genre, think of the tunes made famous by Frank Sinatra. Jessie Mueller once told the story of how she auditioned for “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever” and sang, “It Might as Well Be Spring” from “State Fair.” They immediately asked her if she had anything more jazzy to fit the style of the show. She didn’t have anything, so she asked the accompanist to speed up her original song and sang the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic as if she were Ella Fitzgerald. She got the job.
The moral of the story is to make sure you have a jazz standard in your book — or be prepared to do some major musical tweaking on the spot if you don’t.
Most people say to never sing Sondheim, but if you can handle his crazy rhythms and phrasings at the drop of a hat, you’ll be sure to impress the casting team.
This is what you need for shows like “Rent,” “Rock of Ages,” “American Idiot,” “Spring Awakening” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
I call this the Jason Robert Brown-style song. Look for standalone cabaret songs, such as those from Goldrich and Heisler or Kerrigan and Lowdermilk.
With more recording artists such as Sara Bareilles and Carole King dipping their toes into Broadway, it’s good to have a Top 40 song in your book.
Disney has such a strong presence on Broadway that if you are a working musical theatre actor, you probably already have done or will do a Disney production one day. Examples include “Mary Poppins,” “Newsies,” “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
This is just a list to start you out with getting more variety in your book. There are many other types of songs that would be great to have for an audition. Also, keep in mind that while your book should vary in musical genre, you should also have a good mix of up-tempo and ballad songs. Best of luck with your future auditions!
Nili Bassman has been seen on Broadway in “Curtains,” “Never Gonna Dance” and “Chicago.” Here’s her advice:
“The most important thing to bring into a room at a Broadway dance audition (or any audition, for that matter) is you. One-of-a-kind, beautiful, flawed you. Directors, choreographers and music directors want to see individuals with points of views — dancers with an awareness of who they are and access to all of that beautiful uniqueness. Steps can be refined and drilled during rehearsals, but presence, passion, creativity and personality cannot be taught. You’ve studied technique your entire life. Trust that. The audition room is the place to leave class behind and dance from your soul. All dancers are actors. We tell stories with our bodies. So, use the choreography presented to you to tell a story. Bring your life experience to the dance and make it your own. Have fun! Think of every audition as an opportunity to perform and leave your heart and soul and joy in the room. That is why we dance. That is why others are moved by dance. And yes, warm up, eat a snack and bring water and extra shoes!”
Correy West has been seen on Broadway in “Nice Work If You Can Get It” and “South Pacific.”
Here’s his advice:
“I think the most important thing in a dance audition is to know your strengths and use them to your advantage. I used to spend so much time getting intimidated by the guys who were the most flexible or the ones who could do the most turns, but at the end of the day, there is only one you. If that shines through and you feel like you couldn’t have done anything else towards getting the part when you leave the room, it was a success!”
Justin Boccitto is a New York City performer, teacher, director, choreographer and producer. His work has been seen Off-Broadway, regionally and beyond. He is also the executive director of The Group Theatre Too and the creator of Choreographer’s Canvas. And, if you like what he has to say, you can take a dance class from him at Broadway Dance Center.
Here’s his advice:
“Being on the other side of the table, I find the following things extremely important at dance calls:
Stephanie Bissonnette is an accomplished New York City dancer who has now joined the company of “Mean Girls” as it heads toward Broadway and its first regional premiere at the National Theatre.
Here’s her advice:
“I would say my biggest advice would be to just be yourself. Often the final decision is made because of a certain minor detail. Don’t take anything personally. Just keep getting up and heading to those auditions every day. You never know which one will be the one to skyrocket your career.”
Jeffry Denman is an accoladed Broadway performer (“White Christmas,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” “Cats,” “Dream”), director, choreographer, playwright, author and founder of the Denman Theatre and Dance Company. Here’s his great advice about reading for a role once you’ve made it past the dance stage:
“If you’re reading sides, get off book as much as you can. If you’ve just been given the sides, don’t worry, but if you’ve had them overnight, get off book. It is the single most effective way to get me to consider you. If I’m watching you simply look into papers, I have no idea how you are as an actor.”
What is your best advice for dance auditions? Let us know in the comments below...
Three chairs are set up in a row at the front. Pick one person to sit on the “park bench,” aka the row of chairs. They can pretend to read the newspaper, watch the birds, etc., but they must remain seated on the bench at all times. Select a second person to be the pedestrian. Their job is to embody a character and try to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench. They are not allowed any physical contact.
If the park bench occupant laughs or leaves the bench, the pedestrian takes their place. They become the park bench occupant and the game starts over. If the pedestrian is able to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench after an allotted amount of time, a new pedestrian is selected.
Choose one person to be the party host and ask them to leave the room briefly. Choose three people to be party guests, and have the rest of the students suggest characters for each of them (such as man on a rollercoaster, Justin Bieber, girl who has lost her pet snake, etc.). The party host comes back into the room and returns to the front.
The party starts, and the first guest enters the party. They converse with the host while in character for one minute before the next guest enters the party to converse with the host. Stagger each guest until all three guests are at the party conversing with the host and each other. The guest must stay in character at all times. At the end of five minutes, the host must guess the character for each guest.
This can be played in a small group or large group. The teacher starts the story with one sentence (i.e., “Once upon a time, there was a princess who dreamed of being an astronaut”). Moving clockwise around the circle, each student adds one word to the story. The circle is repeated as many times as the teacher deems necessary until they feel the story is finished.
Divide the group into teams of four to six people and have each team choose a spot around the room. The teacher calls out a scene (such as Spiderman at the scene of a bank robbery, a birthday party gone wrong or a television awards show) and then counts down from 10. Teams have 10 seconds to organize a tableau and then freeze. The teacher then goes around and views each tableau before choosing a winner for that round. The winning team receives a point. Every student from the team must participate in the tableau or the team will be disqualified from the round.
Tip: Remind the students about the use of levels and facial expressions at the start of the game.
Choose two to four students to start onstage and give them a scene to start (such as lifeguards rescuing someone from drowning). The teacher calls, “Action!” and the students begin acting out the given scene. At any point, the teacher calls “Freeze!” and the whole scene must freeze. The teacher selects one new volunteer, and they can tap any of the people onstage to go sit down and the assume that actor’s position.
When the teacher calls “Action!” again, the person who just tapped in must start a whole new scene based on the positions the remaining actors ended in. The other actors will need to improvise and join in the new scene. It must be completely different to the scene that was happening before. Every time the teacher calls “Freeze!” new students replace the previous ones and begin a new scene.
The teacher selects one person to be a gravekeeper, and they stand off to the side. The other students lie on their backs on the ground with their eyes open. They must stay completely still, with a straight face. The gravekeeper’s job is to go around and try to make each person laugh or speak using only acting. They are not allowed to touch the person on the ground. Anyone they succeed at making laugh is alive again and joins the gravekeeper in going around and trying to make the other students laugh or speak.
This is a great game for helping your students learn stage directions. This game follows the usual rules of “Simon Says.” Students should only do what the caller says if they say “Simon says.” If they do not put “Simon says” in front of the instruction and the student does it anyway, they are eliminated. The teacher calls out stage directions, such as downstage right or center. Students can only move to those places on the stage if the teacher says “Simon says” in front of it. Any students who move there otherwise are eliminated. Try to keep the calls coming quickly to keep the game interesting.
The teacher selects one student to sit in a chair and face away from the rest of the group. Ask the student in the chair to close their eyes. Select three students from the remaining group and have each one take a turn standing behind the chair and saying, “Greetings, your majesty” in whatever voice they like. Once all three students have gone, the student in the chair must guess who each one was.
Choose two to three actors to be onstage. Choose a director for each actor. The directors sit at the back, and the actors play out the scene at the front. The teacher assigns the actors a scene and the first direction, and the scene begins. The actors can only do what their directors say. The directors each take a turn narrating the scene, and the actors must act it out. Whenever the teacher sees fit, they can call “Cut!” and new actors and directors are selected.
Playing drama games is a great informal benchmark for where students are at in both comfort and range. Having them engage in games continuously over the length of the course allows you to see visible progress as students learn, become more comfortable and grow their abilities. Encourage everyone to participate and watch as they flourish and have fun!
Ben Platt in 'Dear Evan Hansen'[/caption]
“What I would encourage in terms of best practices is that it’s totally great to take a picture of the procedium and playbill,” he said. “Another great thing is to leave a review. After you see something, review the piece yourself, go to their Facebook page and share your thoughts, especially when they’re positive.”
When it comes to producers’ and marketers’ use of social media, Howell said the most effective method to getting people to share their experiences of the show is to have a step and repeat in the lobby of the theatre. This way, everyone who comes to the show can take a picture and post it online.
Social media is undeniably a great tool to be used before or after a show. However, surfing social media and the internet during a performance has recently become far too regular. Rest assured, theatre fans, this isn’t just a Broadway problem, but a global one.
“I think we will see a global problem of attention spans and people disconnecting from the real world around them to engage with the virtual world around them, but I don’t think it’s limited to theatre,” Howell said. “We see our union and industry fighting against it, saying that live theatre needs to be live.”
However, Howell hopes that embracing social media within limits will actually bring great changes to the Great White Way.
“What I think will happen with Broadway and theatre, I hope, is that we’ll be able to share our art form with audiences and more people through digital with the expectation that if you want the premium live experience, you buy a ticket,” he said. “I would like to see more digital integration where we get to be a part of the show. Word-of-mouth marketing is the No. 1 form of marketing because it doesn’t cost you anything, and people trust their family and friends’ recommendations. I think producers are hurting themselves by not encouraging social media. I just think that we have to write the rules and teach etiquette.”
What about onstage? Could social media be incorporated more frequently into shows themselves, like “Hit List” from the hit NBC show “Smash?” (Yes, it’s a hit in my heart.)
Howell warns that it may remove people from the story, since taking a second look at their phone may cause audiences to then surf the web or check email. However, in the right context, with limitations, it could potentially work.
Aside from within the theatres themselves, Howell has also seen how social media has started to have an impact on casting decisions.
“I see it being involved in casting decisions, but I think people make the mistake of looking at 10,000 followers versus the actual engagement rate,” he said. “So someone with a hundred followers and a higher engagement could actually bring more results to the ticket process than someone with a bunch of spambots that they bought from Russia.”
Frankly, it’s 2017. Technology and social media are bound to start to find their place within theatre, whether onstage or offstage. While this does present some potential negatives to the experience of live theatre we’ve come to know and love, with the right rules and guidance, it could have a profound effect on the art form.
[post_title] => What Role Does Social Media Play In The Theatre?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => role-social-media-play-theatre
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-09-13 17:51:26
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-13 21:51:26
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11358
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 36
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26784
[post_author] => 639
[post_date] => 2017-11-23 12:35:04
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-23 17:35:04
[post_content] => The holidays are fast approaching, and this season is a great time to reflect on all the things we were thankful for over the past year. Luckily for theatre fans, it’s been a year full of many memorable moments and events in the theatre world.
One major thing we were thankful for this year was seeing the return of Broadway royalty. From Bette Midler and Patti LuPone to Billy Porter returning to his Tony Award-winning role as Lola in “Kinky Boots,” this year saw the return of some major star power. It’s years like these we rejoice for the kings and queens of Broadway.
Remember last year when it was a huge deal “She Loves Me” live-streamed online? This year, we got to see so many more shows from the cheapest seat possible: our couch. For some time now, there has been a debate of whether streaming shows ruins the theatrical experience. However, what these captures have done is make high-quality Broadway shows accessible to people all over the world. With a bunch of shows filmed just this past year, including “Falsettos” and “Present Laughter,” let’s hope this surge in streaming shows continues.
It’s hard to pinpoint just one reason to be thankful for this amazing actor. This was truly his year, since he made “Dear Evan Hansen” one of the top-selling shows on Broadway, won his first Tony Award, guest-starred on “Will and Grace” and has an original album in the works. It’s tough that he’s leaving Broadway this month, but we’ll definitely be watching to see what this talented guy does next.
Here are just a few things thespians were thankful for in 2017:
1. ‘The Lion King’ Is Still on Broadway After 20 Years
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_jxXI0UkSQ It was 20 years ago this year that “The Lion King” graced the stage. Since then, it has become one of the top-grossing shows on Broadway. Based on the beloved Disney film and featuring a score by Elton John and masterful costumes, this show took Broadway by storm. “The Lion King” has cemented a permanent place for Disney on Broadway, and there is no sign of the sun setting on Pride Rock anytime soon.2. Broadway Royalty Returning to the Stage
One major thing we were thankful for this year was seeing the return of Broadway royalty. From Bette Midler and Patti LuPone to Billy Porter returning to his Tony Award-winning role as Lola in “Kinky Boots,” this year saw the return of some major star power. It’s years like these we rejoice for the kings and queens of Broadway.
3. When This Happened
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Y8aUplM3I8 Speaking of Broadway royalty, Midler deserves her own spot on this list. Not only did this woman finally get the Tony she has always deserved, but she gave us an unforgettable speech to go with it. We are truly thankful for the unfiltered Divine Ms. M.4. ‘Moulin Rouge’ Is Coming to Broadway
via GIPHY It’s seemed inevitable that this movie-musical would eventually make its way to Broadway, and it finally got the green light and its own production team this year. Even among all the non-musical films hitting the stage this year, we don’t even have to question Baz Luhrmann's smash hit’s theatrical debut!5. The Music of Michael Friedman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PIPtoo6k1o One of the more surprising losses in the theatre world this year was the death of songwriter Michael Friedman. Known for his works “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” and “The Fortress of Solitude,” this songwriter showed a ton of promise with his Off-Broadway work. He had multiple shows in the works at the time of his death, so we hope we have not heard the last of his work.6. We Had ‘Great Comet’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q12mfQ4PRLA One of the sadder things to happen on Broadway this year was the closing of “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.” After hearing the concept of this show, some people thought it could never work on Broadway. Not only did it work, but it gained a huge fan following, won multiple Tony Awards and gave us Dave Malloy. From the score to the immersive experience to the amazing cast, this show will truly be missed.7. A Long-Running Play
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOWO4gq-whg It was a great year for playwrights on Broadway, as many plays garnered a ton of buzz. With shows such as “Oslo” drawing in crowds and Laurie Metcalf taking home a Tony for “A Doll’s House, Part 2,” it was a very diverse year for plays on Broadway. A play that came a bit out of left field was “The Play That Goes Wrong.” This show not only outlasted all the heavily Tony-nominated plays of the season, but it’s become the longest-running play on Broadway. This hysterical show pays homage to anyone who has ever worked on a show and is laugh-out-loud funny. Here’s hoping it stays the longest-running play on Broadway!8. The Return of Movie Musicals
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEJd2RyGm8Q&t=2s Off the success of films such as “Beauty and the Beast” and “La La Land,” it’s no surprise there has been an increase in interest of movie musicals. Not only are we getting live-action Disney musical films and stage-to-screen musicals, but we’re once again getting original movie musicals. One of the most anticipated films of the year is “The Greatest Showman,” which features Broadway stars Hugh Jackman and Keala Settle. Pasek and Paul wrote the score, so there’s no way this movie can disappoint.9. From Stage to Computer Screen
Remember last year when it was a huge deal “She Loves Me” live-streamed online? This year, we got to see so many more shows from the cheapest seat possible: our couch. For some time now, there has been a debate of whether streaming shows ruins the theatrical experience. However, what these captures have done is make high-quality Broadway shows accessible to people all over the world. With a bunch of shows filmed just this past year, including “Falsettos” and “Present Laughter,” let’s hope this surge in streaming shows continues.
10. Ben Platt
It’s hard to pinpoint just one reason to be thankful for this amazing actor. This was truly his year, since he made “Dear Evan Hansen” one of the top-selling shows on Broadway, won his first Tony Award, guest-starred on “Will and Grace” and has an original album in the works. It’s tough that he’s leaving Broadway this month, but we’ll definitely be watching to see what this talented guy does next.
What are some of the things you were thankful for in the theatre world in 2017? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Things Thespians Are Thankful For This Year [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-things-thespians-thankful-year [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-23 12:35:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-23 17:35:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=26784 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [1] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 26766 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-11-22 15:33:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-22 20:33:32 [post_content] => Whether your looking to satisfy a die-hard thespian or a Broadway mega-fan, TheatreNerds has you covered! We've put together a unique list of theatrical treasures that will be delight the theatre nerd in your life this holiday season.For the Broadway-Nerd
Broadway Coloring Collection
This Broadway-Themed coloring collection makes the perfect stocking stuffer and will be sure to start many conversations with fellow Broadway-Nerds. The creative and clever crayons, pencils, & coloring pages are filled with puns and themes from their respective shows.
Current themes are Hamilton, Les Mis, & a general Broadway set. Maybe some coloring is exactly what you need during the stressful holiday season. Check out the Entire Collection HERE
Dear Evan Hansen
This years smash hit has touched the lives of many Broadway fans, not to mention crying like a baby to the soundtrack over and over. We've put together some of our favorite DEH gear.'Dear Evan Hansen: Through The Window'
Written by Justin Paul & Steven Levenson, 'Through The Window' takes you behind the scenes of the hit musical. A fascinating deep dive into the story and evolution of the project. Bibliophiles and die-hard fans are sure to enjoy learning more about this special show. Get your hardcover copy HERE
You Will Be Found Collection
This collection is inspired by a key message and theme in the show. The design is available in tees, hoodies, mugs, totes, and jewelry. See the entire collection HERE
Hamilton
Let's face it, Hamilton is still hot right now! This blockbuster musical has swept the nation and shows no signs of dying down as it launches it's touring companies.Hand-Stamped Jewelry
Hand-hammered jewelry that has simple yet inspiring messages from the show. An understated way to show your Hamil-Pride. See the collection HERE
A.HAM Trucker Cap
Young, Scrappy & Hungry Collection
Be A Broadway Star Board Game
This board game is for total Broadway nerds. Start at acting school and work your way up to the great white way in this showbiz strategy game. Buy on Amazon HERE
Other Broadway Themed Swag - Browse by Show below
Wicked
Les Mis
Sweeney Todd
Rent
Phantom of the Opera
For The Thespian
Break Into Showtunes Shower Curtain
For many of us, showers are 90% showtunes, and 10% washing. This hilarious shower curtain ensures the message gets to family and roommates. Comes in clothing also. See collection HERE
Attack of the Theater People
A thespian adventure book about an aspiring actor, jazz hands & NYC in the 1980s. Pretty much the perfect read while chestnuts are roasting on an open fire. Get the book on Amazon HERE
Thespian Comedy/Tragedy Jewelry
Shower curtain too...big? These mask charms are a the perfect way to show your thespian pride in an elegant and quaint fashion. Buy individual or as a set. See them HERE
Theatre Is My Sport Collection
Theatre Is My Sport, enough said! See the collection HERE
Thespian Lifestyle Stickers
See all stickers HERE
For The Brand New Thespian
These adorable onesies are perfect for the Thespian in training. See the collection HERE
Want to find more Broadway and Thespian themed goodies?
Browse The Entire Theatre Nerds Swag Shop HERE
[post_title] => Theatre Nerds' 2017 Holiday Gift Guide [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => theatre-nerds-2017-holiday-gift-guide [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-17 02:13:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-17 06:13:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=26766 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [2] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 26751 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-11-20 10:44:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-20 15:44:15 [post_content] => Many in the Broadway world first came to know James Corden through his work on the stage. Corden made his mark on the West End and Broadway in the early 2000s playing Timms in “The History Boys.” Both a Tony Award winner and host, Corden now has a steady gig as the host of “The Late Late Show,” where he repeatedly reminds audiences he hasn’t lost his musical theatre roots. A popular recurring segment on Corden’s talk show is his cabaret--style performances of select Broadway musicals on the streets of Los Angeles. The musical scenes by the actors are almost as hilarious as the reactions of those caught at the stoplight. Here is our ranking of Corden’s crosswalk musical moments:
6. ‘Grease’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wlLwFnqzEo One of Corden’s initial forays into the crosswalk theatre scene, the piece has all of the “Grease” favorites. Though the segment lacks a set, fancy props or a celebrity guest star, the cast is spirited — especially Corden, who jumps on a car during an enthusiastic performance of “Greased Lightning.”5. ‘The Phantom of the Opera’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgPxtLnJozc Again, while this video lacks a celebrity guest, watching Corden try to navigate a wooden boat across the sidewalk is comedic gold. It also boasts an impressive set of costumes and delightfully confused drivers.4. ‘The Lion King’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i2o6FmESEmQ Guest star Seth Rogen is the real star of this number, despite the fact that he has the smallest role. His velvet jumpsuit and commentary are as humorous as watching him sing “sha-la-la” as the moon in “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?”3. ‘Mary Poppins’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFXKZWk76Bg Let no one say Corden isn’t committed when he dons full Mary Poppins garb for this production during a London stint. He’s almost as committed as Sir Ben Kingsley, who treats his casting in the role of Bert with determined professionalism. To top it all off, the production value is one of the best of all the crosswalk productions. There are elaborate costumes and sets, including Corden being lowered in on construction equipment.2. ‘Hair’
https://youtu.be/BJd0-sRffFE Watching Lin-Manuel Miranda pretend to be on acid is worth the viewing alone. But after watching the whole performance, including a surprising bare-all moment toward the end, it’s clear Corden and Miranda need to be cast together in some sort of production.1. ‘Beauty and the Beast’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nu4Pzsolyhg Corden’s performance of Belle is made better by the additions of Josh Gad, Luke Evans and Dan Stevens from the recent remake of “Beauty and the Beast.” Even the warm-up exercises are filled with laugh-out-loud moments, including a failed trust exercise. Here’s hoping Corden continues to bring music and theatre to the late-night talk show scene. And may we be the first to suggest him for the 2018 Tony Awards hosting gig.What are your favorite moments from the crosswalk musicals? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Ranking Of James Corden's Crosswalk Musicals From Awesome To Awesomer [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => ranking-james-cordens-crosswalk-musicals-awesome-awesomer [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-20 10:44:15 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-20 15:44:15 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=26751 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [3] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 26709 [post_author] => 395 [post_date] => 2017-11-16 10:29:17 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-16 15:29:17 [post_content] => It’s hard to imagine a time when people didn’t communicate without the add-on of adorable emojis, whether expressing happiness, heartbreak or humor. And with the range of emotions found in theatre, emojis are the perfect way to describe some of the most common occurrences theatre kids experience from rehearsal to closing night. Here are 26 emojis you’ll use as you perform in a show and the times when you’ll need them most:When the cast list goes up and you see that you made it in the show!
When your scene partner nails their delivery a little too well and you break character to dissolve into giggles.
When your rehearsal was scheduled to end at 9 p.m., but it’s 10:45 p.m.
When your choreographer asks if you practiced your moves since the last time you saw her, and you answer, “Of course!”
When your crush gets cast opposite you after weeks of wishing on your end
When you’re told today’s the day you’ll run your love scene in full — stage kiss included — with the whole cast watching.
When you walk into rehearsal off-book for the first time.
When your director gives the whole cast notes, but they all seem to stare at you.
When you get to rehearsal and are told you’re running a completely different scene than the one you’d prepared for.
When your director asks who in the chorus wants an extra line to sing in a song.
When you’re giving your bows on closing night, everyone’s holding hands and your life feels like it’s over.
When your scene partner is holding you up in the air and his legs start to wobble.
When your castmate forgets his prop backstage — again.
How you feel all week during tech week.
How you feel the moment you hit your mattress after rehearsal.
How you feel during your dress rehearsal when your director sighs and goes, “Well you know what they say…”
How you feel the first time you run Act 1 through all the way without stopping.
When you forget your lines onstage and have to aggressively ad lib to get out of the situation alive.
How you feel when you help the tech crew carry a piece of set onstage just once.
How you feel when someone doesn’t turn off their mic after going backstage — and the audience can hear everything they’re saying mid-show.
How you feel when your solo goes off without a hitch.
When your castmate announces she has caught a cold three days before opening night.
How you feel when you’re waiting backstage on opening night as the overture plays.
When it’s late at night, everyone is hangry and your director tells you she wants to run the opening number “just one more time.”
When you try on your costume for the first time and channel your inner Anita from “West Side Story.”
How you feel when your show closes and you remember all the good times you shared together.
Which emojis would you use to describe your show experience? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 26 Emojis That Describe What You Go Through While Putting On A Show [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 26-emojis-describe-go-putting-show [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-07-11 19:19:30 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-07-11 23:19:30 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=26709 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [4] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 25539 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-11-15 09:36:54 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-15 14:36:54 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=62] [post_title] => Can You Bake This 'Waitress' Lyric Quiz To Perfection? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => can-you-bake-this-waitress-lyric-quiz-perfection [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-15 09:41:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-15 14:41:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=25539 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [5] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 25554 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-11-13 10:31:28 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-13 15:31:28 [post_content] => Good theatre draws an emotional response from its audience, be it happy or sad. And if you haven’t had the experience of leaving a theatre sniffly and puffy-eyed, you haven’t lived. via GIPHY Here are 12 times that musicals left us sobbing our hearts out: (Given that many of these contain some crucial plot points, it feels necessary to say spoiler alert before reading on.)1. ‘I’ll Cover You Reprise’ from ‘Rent’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fi9srqFqCFo The pure love between Angel and Collins turns to heartbreaking loss when Angel finally succumbs to AIDS. Jesse L. Martin has two equally beautiful renditions of this song, one from the musical and the other from the film. The sadness of this song is punctuated by the tragic loss of the show’s creator, Jonathan Larson, at a young age. It’s a poignant reminder of how short life can be.2. ‘Atención/Alabanza’ from ‘In The Heights’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APQ4fKI5nDo The entire community learns of the death of the neighborhood’s beloved Abuela Claudia over the dispatch radios. Usnavi then reminds everyone to cherish the small things as the community comes together to mourn. Try not to shed a tear — we dare you.3. ‘It’s Quiet Uptown’ from ‘Hamilton’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOAC5-Jcgyc The lyrics of this song are a haunting picture of what loss feels like for those left behind. Lin-Manuel Miranda's second act finds the Hamiltons learning to cope with the loss of their son after his untimely death. While the original version of this song is gorgeous, Kelly Clarkson’s rendition from “The Hamilton Mixtape” will give you chills.4. ‘Words Fail’ from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RKP9UdIcXFk After revealing his lie and being rejected by the Murphys, Evan hits rock bottom. Ben Platt’s emotional delivery of Evan’s desperation and shattered sense of self will leave you a sobbing mess.5. ‘Little God of My Heart/Finale’ from ‘Miss Saigon’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEc8ACrcW1U Kim’s realization that her dream of being with Chris has come to an end, her desperation for a better life for her son and her eventual suicide all culminate in this tragic final number.6. ‘She Used to Be Mine’ from ‘Waitress’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Erjdq6wwRuU Feeling the frustration of living a life she has no say in, Jenna laments all she has been through and the woman she once was. The beautiful melodies are layered with haunting lyrics and an emotional depth that will tug at your heartstrings. Again, both the Broadway version and songwriter Sara Bareilles’ rendition are equally lovely.7. ‘He’s Not Here’ from ‘Next To Normal’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UM8HFHmd_ck In this song, Dan gently reminds his wife, Diana, that their son is gone. His words and the haunting melody come together as just one of many emotionally poignant moments in this musical. Have a box of tissues ready for this tear-jerker.8. ‘Left Behind’ from ‘Spring Awakening’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8nrA7hLuof8 When Moritz commits suicide, those close to him are left to grapple with his death. The lyrics of “Left Behind” are a touching and bittersweet remembrance of his life — both the good and the bad.9. ‘Telephone Wire’/‘It Was Great to Have You Home…’ from ‘Fun Home’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N_US4P9zPQQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPTYqB_0ZEo This is a heavy one, as a father and daughter struggle to form a bond and grapple with their past. An emotional moment goes from difficult to painful when it’s revealed to be their last night together. When Alison’s father takes his own life, she spirals and questions the entire ordeal.10. 'Falling Slowly (Reprise)’ from ‘Once’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQYLI2cKL9k The ache and loss of love that can never be serves as the gut-wrenching end of “Once.” After riding the emotional rollercoaster of the relationship between Guy and Girl, there is no fairytale happy ending — just a reality that is as beautiful as it is sad.11. ‘Finale’ from ‘West Side Story’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzDfaI83C74 This iconic “Romeo and Juliet” love story is set to the soaring melodies of Leonard Bernstein and the poetic words of Stephen Sondheim. Watching Maria sob over what could have been as she and Tony reprise the hopeful “Somewhere” while the remaining characters realize the part they’ve played is enough to break your heart.12. All of ‘Les Misérables’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7MLCUDUPB4 This one doesn’t require any explanation. The number of character deaths speaks for itself, and there are too many sad songs to count. We’ll leave you to go emotionally recover now. via GIPHY Which musical moments tug at your heartstrings? Let us know in the comments below... [post_title] => 12 Musical Moments That Will Make You Ugly Cry [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-musical-moments-will-make-ugly-cry [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-09-04 09:38:20 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-04 13:38:20 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=25554 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 17 [filter] => raw ) [6] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12193 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-11-11 10:21:49 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-11 15:21:49 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=60] [post_title] => The Hardest 'Les Misérables' Lyric Quiz Ever [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => hardest-les-miserables-lyric-quiz-ever [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-11 10:22:33 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-11 15:22:33 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12193 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [7] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 25525 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-11-10 10:05:40 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-10 15:05:40 [post_content] => The road to stardom can be full of ups and downs, and it can be helpful to keep some go-to mantras in mind to help you get through some of the tougher times. Whether you’re a beginner or an avid professional, here is some food for thought on what it takes to be a performer and eight mantras to keep in your back pocket:1. It’s Not Always About Talent
Being the best singer, actor or dancer is not always the way to win the role. Sometimes, being a fully well-rounded person with a positive attitude and excellent work ethic can trump talent. Also, check out the following great attributes listed below:
2. Always Do the Work
Want to succeed in show business? Do the work. Whether it’s going to school, practicing every day, auditioning or creating your own work, it’s all part of having a thriving life as a performer.
3. Don't Complain
Choosing a career and the life of a performer (whether a singer, actor or dancer) is your choice. It’s not an easy life, nor is it a linear one where you can predict how things will go and where your talent and jobs may lead you. Working hard is required, but so is keeping a positive attitude while you’re hustling to achieve your goals and dreams. No one likes being around or working with a complainer.
4. Make Goals
As a performer, you should always have something you’re working toward, whether it’s a dream job or role or working at a particular theatre or as part of a specific dance company. It’s a way to stay focused, disciplined and constantly upping your skills and talents. Speaking of making goals, here’s a great chart from Christie Zimmer to help you to achieve them:
5. Art Ain't Easy
If being a performer were easy, we would all be standing on a stage right at this very moment, enjoying the audience’s applause and laughter. But alas, we are not. This profession requires persistence, dedication, constantly improving your craft, networking and so much more. As Tom Hanks says in “A League of Their Own,” “It’s the hard that makes it great.”
6. Success = Preparation + Opportunity
Is there a role you’re dying to play? Want to perform on Broadway? These are great goals, but you must be prepared for them so when the opportunity strikes, you’re ready. And, keep in mind that the funny thing about the universe is that typically, when you focus and prepare for specific goals, the universe brings them to you. What work have you done to prepare for your goals?
7. Be On Time
Whether it’s auditions, class, performances or anything else related to your performing arts career, remember that early is on time, on time is late and late is never be hired again. This cartoon from q2qcartoons reiterates this sentiment:
8. Look ‘Em in the Eyes
The job of an actor is to communicate with your scene partner or the audience. Look into their eyes. See them. Speak to them with your words, your eyes and your heart. Honest communication is key to a great performance.
Have anymore great performer mantras? Post them in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Important Mantras All Successful Actors Live By [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-important-mantras-successful-actors-live [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-10 10:05:40 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-10 15:05:40 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=25525 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [8] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 20733 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-11-07 10:11:19 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-07 15:11:19 [post_content] => Whether you’re hired as an actor, backstage technician or designer, your job is to help bring the creative team’s vision to life. Therefore, you want to make sure you are on your game and carry out those duties like a pro. Consequently, don’t jeopardize your relationship or future jobs with the rest of the team by doing one of the nine things on this list that seriously drive a creative team crazy:1. Being Late
Everyone’s time is precious. Be respectful of schedules and be on time when you’re called. Waiting for someone who is late can push back other important commitments and to-do’s required by the creative team, or even just make someone else late for another endeavor. Remember this mantra: Early is on time, on time is late and late means you’ll never be hired again.
2. Being Unprepared
Did you need to learn your lines? Did you need to do research before your next meeting and rehearsal, but time just got away from you? Truly, there are no excuses for being unprepared. The creative team hired you to be onstage or behind-the-scenes because they trusted you would bring to the project the work you said you’d do. Don’t hold them back by being unprepared once it’s time to come together with them. This also includes asking questions you could have answered yourself by conducting a Google search, reading the script or taking a trip to the library.
3. Not Being Available
You committed to the project and schedule, but then decided to take a last-minute, more lucrative audition or a potential meeting for a bigger project that would force you to be less available than you initially let on. It’s one thing to have a doctor’s appointment, catch the flu or have a short meeting or audition for a future gig that takes you away for a short amount of time. However, to willingly not uphold your original commitment of allotted time for a better opportunity or last-minute day job is just tacky and unprofessional. Not to mention, it could also put a dent in the scheduled events and rehearsals that need to happen to mount the production.
4. Not Keeping to Your Job Description
Whether you’re an actor, designer or other personnel, you were hired to do that specific job. So please keep in mind that an actor does not need to give notes to another actor (that is the director’s job), and the costume designer should not interfere with the lighting design, unless it involves coordinating colors or matching aesthetic. Stick to your job, and the creative team will stick with you.
5. Wasting People’s Time
You shouldn’t waste the time of the creative team by auditioning for their shows or pitching them work if it’s something you’re not right or qualified for. Everyone’s time is limited. Thus, when a creative team spends hours and hours trying to find the perfect person for their project, it’s definitely not the right way to make a first impression. In actuality, it could leave a devastating mark that prevents them from considering you in the future when you are actually the perfect match for their project.
6. Not Being Open to Collaborating
The art of putting together a production is indeed a collaborative effort. Everyone involved must be willing to collaborate within the realm of their duties. It’s detrimental to the process if you are too set in your ways about how the look should work or don’t take other people’s visions into account. Remember, collaboration is the key to success.
7. Not Promoting the Work
Social media is a huge outlet for letting others know about what is going on in the world. Take the time to promote the projects you are in. It benefits everyone, and let’s face it, we can all use help from each other in this realm.
8. Being on Your Cell Phone
Being on your cell phone during rehearsals and meetings and distracted by non-work-related texts and emails is a big no-no. When you are in with the creative team, be present, available and ready to work. Leave your phone for later, or step outside if you have to take an emergency call.
9. Not Meeting Deadlines
Last, make sure to stay on schedule and keep up with your deadlines. Putting on a production means a building block of steps must occur. Make sure to stick to deadlines so every part of the creative process can be carried out without a hitch.
What do you do to avoid driving your creative team crazy? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 9 Things That Drive A Creative Team Crazy [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 9-things-drive-creative-team-crazy [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-07 10:11:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-07 15:11:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=20733 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [9] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 20730 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-11-06 10:08:09 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-06 15:08:09 [post_content] => Whether you’re enjoying theatre from an audience or honing your craft as an aspiring artist, your first thought when watching a Broadway musical that features pint-sized performers with triple-threat talent is sure to be, “What have I really accomplished so far?” Check out these six musicals that only go to show what little people can do:1. ‘Les Misérables’
In showbiz, it doesn’t get much better than singing the iconic music of “Les Misérables.” Classics such as “Castle on a Cloud” and “Little People” are sung by Little Cosette, the adorable orphan under the care of two bizarre innkeepers, and Gavroche, the spirited young revolutionary. Both are equally prestigious parts in the theatre world. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glnoF9LKfKw2. ‘Matilda’
They may be revolting children living in revolting times, but honestly, they’re way more talented than we could ever dream of being. Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, this musical adaptation holds some serious girl power (and kid power in general). Believe us, these kids are fierce! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uN_62IO4zIk3. ‘School of Rock’
Most actors on Broadway can sing, dance and act, but the cast of “School of Rock” is a whole different story. These quadruple-threat musicians rock out to songs by Andrew Lloyd Webber and play their instruments in the band — just like the movie! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UChFKUD24rI4. ‘The King and I’
The King of Siam and English schoolteacher Anna might be the primary roles in this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic, but the royal children steal the show. These kids get to dress in intricate prince and princess attire and sing the familiar tune, “Getting to Know You.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AkjsVjKEeM5. ‘The Sound of Music’
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s beloved tale about a singing nun who finds her way into a family of seven children continuously stands the test of time. Besides, who didn’t watch the movie as a child and dream of frolicking through fields with Julie Andrews while singing “Do-Re-Mi?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLm07s8fnzM6. ‘Annie’
Perhaps one of the most iconic roles for young performers is that of the optimistic orphan stuck in the home of the cruel Miss Hannigan. This show is full of heart, as well as hummable tunes including “Maybe,” “It’s a Hard-Knock Life” and “Tomorrow.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iiK6MilSy7sWhat’s your favorite kid-heavy musical? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 6 Musicals That Star Super-Talented Kids [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 6-musicals-star-super-talented-kids [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-06 10:08:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-06 15:08:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=20730 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [10] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 17181 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-11-03 10:08:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-03 14:08:21 [post_content] => Are you ready, kids?! In a swift 18 years, the “SpongeBob SquarePants” franchise has spawned 11 seasons, two movies, countless video games and now a musical. After opening last year in Chicago, “SpongeBob SquarePants” is set to open Dec. 4 at New York’s Palace Theatre. In this new story, SpongeBob and his friends return to save Bikini Bottom from an erupting volcano. There has been buzz surrounding this show for at least a year and a half. Most of the Chicago cast (which the album features) is returning to open the New York show next month. With plenty of nautical nonsense to go around, this musical has blown critics’ expectations out of the water. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LZbdSV2JJw Composed by a plethora of musicians, such as the Flaming Lips, Sara Bareilles and Yolanda Adams, the music is an ambitious effort. The score’s greatest strength is its diversity of genres, ranging from pop and rock to hip-hop and gospel. However, too many sea captains does not always a steady ship make. With the exception of a few standout numbers, the score itself is somewhat of a mixed bag. It is at best, innocently catchy and at worst, slightly tedious. Certain numbers, such as “Poor Pirates” and Squidward’s solo, “I’m Not a Loser,” are completely irrelevant and feel unnecessary. On the other hand, the uplifting, “Just a Simple Sponge” and the gospel number, “Super Sea Star Savior” are among the most buoyant in the show. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5TCOq0rvac Luckily, even if the score occasionally sinks, the stellar cast keeps it afloat with knockout performances and impressions that would fit right in with any episode of the series. Ethan Slater and Danny Skinner fit right in with their comedic charm as BFFs SpongeBob and Patrick. One of the more underrated performances on the album is Emmy Raver-Lampman as Pearl. Her soulful belts during “Daddy Knows Best” are a refreshing break from the typical contemporary theatre/pop sound of the show up to that point. Elsewhere, Carlos Lopez (Mr. Krabs) and Nick Blaemire (Plankton) deliver dynamic turns as the series’ famed restaurant rivals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIHeo-4GiII The musical is completed with sound effects from the show, including Gary’s signature meow, revamped versions of the theme song and the timeless favorite, “Best Day Ever.” Longtime fans of the series will absorb the most from this show, but there is truly something for everyone in this season’s hottest feel-good musical yet! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5uSFb5YgC4Have you seen or heard the new “SpongeBob SquarePants” musical? Let us know your thoughts in the comments...
[post_title] => ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ Cast Album Review [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => spongebob-squarepants-cast-album-review [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-03 10:08:21 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-03 14:08:21 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=17181 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [11] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12141 [post_author] => 639 [post_date] => 2017-11-01 09:49:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-01 13:49:55 [post_content] => It’s that time of year again, when the weather gets a little cooler, the leaves begin to fall and show season has commenced. You’ve made it through the rough couple of weeks of auditions and callbacks and made it into the show! Now is when the real work starts with rehearsals. As part of the rehearsal process, you have to learn the songs, choreography and lines, bond with your castmates and, of course, miss out on a few things, since there are only so many hours in a day. Here’s a list of things you may miss out on in the coming months because you have rehearsal:1. Eating Dinner at a Normal Time
What is for dinner for the next couple of months? Say goodbye to a regular eating schedule, and pack yourself an extra bag of almonds. This may be a short rehearsal, or you may not leave until it’s dark out. Good luck!
2. Going to the Mall
via GIPHY Oh hey, that new Marvel movie was released this weekend, and you’re friends are going to see it right as it comes out! Too bad you can’t join — you have rehearsal.3. Going to Concerts
Your friend just won a contest to see Idina Menzel, and the concert is on Wednesday night! Too bad there’s no way you can make it.
4. Going to Parties
via GIPHY Your crush, Andy, is having a party this weekend. Of course, this is the one weekend of the month your director is having a mandatory rehearsal. See you later, Andy.5. Going to the Gym
via GIPHY Well, you might not be able to hit the gym like you used to, but you’ll be working your butt off learning that huge tap number every night for the next six weeks! Get ready for some seriously toned calves.6. Going to See Shows
via GIPHY Your school has trips to see at least one Broadway show every semester. Guess what you’ll be doing instead of snagging tickets? You guessed it. Your non-theatre friends will definitely be rubbing their tickets to “Anastasia” in your face.7. Going Apple Picking
via GIPHY It’s that time of year again, when all your friends want that perfect profile pic in a plaid shirt holding a pumpkin or bag of apples. Too bad you have to go over that fight scene again on Saturday. No apples or pumpkins for you.8. Sleeping
via GIPHY Everyone is leaving the theatre, but there are about 12 scenes that need the lighting design redone. The director told you to do it tomorrow, but the show opens in a week. Guess you’re sleeping in the theatre tonight. Despite missing a couple parties, movies and about 40 hours of sleep, attending rehearsals is all worth it once you make it to opening night and put on a successful show. Well done! via GIPHYWhat else have you missed because you had rehearsal? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Things You Miss Out On When You Have Rehearsal [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-things-miss-rehearsal [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-01 09:49:55 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-01 13:49:55 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12141 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [12] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12148 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-10-30 10:18:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-30 14:18:24 [post_content] => In an industry currently dominated by stratospheric belters and tenors, it’s easy to overlook some hidden gems for lower male voices. Usually known for playing antagonists, parents or suave, cunning lovers, baritones are not without some terrific roles with beautiful melodies and captivating character development. In no particular order of greatness, here are 16 underrated contemporary baritone roles, with “contemporary” meaning anything from “Rent” onward:1. Rocky Balboa from ‘Rocky the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVHWboXFU0A Andy Karl (“Groundhog Day,” “Legally Blonde,” “9 to 5”) played the iconic boxer in the 2014 Broadway production of the musical.2. Tommy Korman from ‘Honeymoon in Vegas’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWrVj32TxIY A wealthy gambler, Tommy Korman falls in love with Betsy, who bears a strong resemblance to his late wife.3. Iván from ‘Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOq5rMLAuXQ The seductive male lead of the show, Iván is Pepa’s lover but is secretly involved with Paulina.4. Coalhouse Walker, Jr. from ‘Ragtime’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wdSlIyhv1I Famously created by Brian Stokes Mitchell, the character Coalhouse is a musician in Harlem who seeks justice for his lover’s death.5. Arnaud du Thil from ‘Martin Guerre’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bklkSZ3R_yU Loosely based on the real-life figure, Arnaud assumes the identity of the title character after Guerre leaves home to fight the Huguenots.6. Man in the Yellow Suit from ‘Tuck Everlasting’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKAgdZdTszg The main antagonist in the musical, the Man in the Yellow Suit pursues the Tucks to receive immortal life.7. Count Dracula from ‘Dracula: the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQTiyB7RYHw Based on the famous character by Bram Stoker, Count Dracula is a vampire who uses supernatural abilities to fulfill his dark desires.8. Death from ‘Death Takes a Holiday’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TCUz_262eXw The lonely spirit of Death becomes a handsome young prince to relate better to human emotion.9. Jackie from ‘Billy Elliot’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QpdMKYGnm8 Billy Elliot’s father, Jackie, is not supportive of his son’s newfound passion for dance, and is engaged in riots against police during the 1984–1985 Coal Miners’ Strike.10. Richard from ‘A New Brain’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdXCEYci68E Richard is a kind, compassionate doctor who dwells on his past regrets.11. Gleb from ‘Anastasia’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y45QURGsDjc A new character created for the stage version of the 1997 film, Gleb is a Bolshevik general who falls in love with Anastasia while being demanded to complete a fatal task.12. Mr. Lethe from ‘Jasper in Deadland’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuygQ6U9DJ8 One of the many villains in the show, Mr. Lethe is a scheming multimillionaire whose water bottles make everyone in purgatory feel better.13. Edward Bloom from ‘Big Fish’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=610OZc2p23g A dying travelling salesman, Edward Bloom has led a fantastical life that his son Will struggles to understand.14. Robert Kincaid from ‘The Bridges of Madison County’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S57gWAjmzgA A photographer for National Geographic, Robert has an unforgettable encounter and affair with Francesca in Madison County, Iowa.15. Frank Cioffi from ‘Curtains’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwWoP-h0Iig Frank is a Bostonian detective who had secretly wanted to be a musical theatre star his whole life. He develops feelings for Nikki, a naïve ingénue.16. Jason from ‘Ordinary Days’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1sou_Uunhk Jason tries to advance his relationship with his girlfriend Claire, who resists his advances until she reveals a big secret near the story’s end.Did we leave out your favorite overlooked recent baritone role? Let us know in the comments...
[post_title] => 16 Underrated Contemporary Baritone Roles [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 16-underrated-contemporary-baritone-roles [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-30 10:19:08 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-30 14:19:08 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12148 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [13] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12142 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-10-25 09:35:55 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-25 13:35:55 [post_content] => My parents claim I came out of the womb singing and dancing. In my younger years, my siblings labeled me a drama queen. My friends both loved and hated me for making them be in every play I staged/video I directed/dance I choreographed. It wasn’t until my mother enrolled me in a summer theatre camp that I finally found a tribe of people who were just like me. And it was nothing short of amazing. Does any of this sound familiar? Here are 16 signs that you should join a theatre group:1. You long for the day in your life when a spontaneous musical number will break out.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8tJoIaXZ0rw2. Halloween is your favorite day of the year because you have an excuse to wear a costume and no one will think you’re a weirdo.
via GIPHY3. You couldn’t name the Founding Fathers for your high school history exam, but you can now.
via GIPHY4. You perform a one-person show every day while in the shower.
via GIPHY5. Most of your playlists consist of Broadway musical cast albums.
6. You have an awards acceptance speech that you’ve perfected over the years at the ready. You know, just in case.
7. Whenever you’re in a restaurant, you wish someone would jump onto a table and start a rousing rendition of “La Vie Boheme.”
8. You save and scrape together enough money to see every show that comes through where you live.
9. You always project your voice. How else will you be heard? Your friends constantly ask you why you’re shouting.
10. When someone says a line that happens to appear in the lyrics of a musical song, you feel the need to sing the next line — even if they have no clue what you’re talking about.
11. You love wearing makeup. Especially false eyelashes or heavy foundation.
12. Your wardrobe consists of black clothing and costumes.
13. Strangers often stare at you because you are singing loudly in your car. This does not embarrass you.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nck6BZga7TQ14. You create elaborate backstories in your head about strangers, friends and colleagues.
15. The musical episodes of TV shows are always your favorite. How can you go wrong with singing?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DuR-P2r6Gk16. You know all of the words to “Seasons of Love” and “Defying Gravity.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntY5sL08vu8 From summer theatre camps and high school drama groups to college theatre productions and community theatre groups, there is an organization for every age. Or, if there isn’t one in your area, you could even consider starting a theatre group of your own! Don’t be afraid to seek out like-minded lovers of the stage. After all, you never know when a spontaneous musical number could break out. It’s essential to have the right people by your side and ready with jazz hands at a moment’s notice.Thought of a few signs that we missed? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 16 Signs You Should Join A Theatre Group [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => signs-you-should-join-a-theatre-group [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-26 10:14:34 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-26 14:14:34 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12142 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [14] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11959 [post_author] => 1121 [post_date] => 2017-10-23 23:21:24 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-24 03:21:24 [post_content] => [post_title] => 10 Things That Every Thespian Can Relate To [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-things-every-thespian-can-relate [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-23 23:21:24 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-24 03:21:24 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11959 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [15] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12111 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-10-23 10:01:48 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-23 14:01:48 [post_content] => In case you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, we’ve compiled Broadway’s latest and greatest. These newly minted shows range from revivals to original productions, and we’re stoked for each and every one.Here are 10 musicals coming to the Great White Way that you have to put in your calendar:
1. ‘Frozen’ (February 2018)
These days, it’s likely you’re in one of two camps: the camp that’s still recovering from the nonstop chorus of six-year-old girls singing “Let It Go” and the camp that continues to worship this Idina Menzel-led masterpiece. Either way, hits such as “The Lion King” have shown us that Disney goes big on Broadway, and this is one production you won’t want to miss.
2. ‘Once on This Island’ (December 2017)
What do you get when you combine Lea Salonga, Phillip Boykin, Alex Newell and a whole slew of other talented cast members? The Broadway production of “Once on This Island” that is sailing to Broadway this winter. The timely story chronicles two young lovers who fight against prejudice and all odds.
3. ‘JUNK’ (November 2017)
If you’re still obsessing over Steven Pasquale in “The Bridges of Madison County” (because who isn’t listening to “It All Fades Away” on repeat?), it’s time to rejoice! He is returning to the Broadway Stage in Lincoln Center Theater’s debut of “JUNK,” a play based on the life of Robert Merkin, “America’s Alchemist.” Check out this modern money thriller in November!
4. ‘Escape to Margaritaville’ (February 2018)
Jimmy Buffett + Broadway = this musical escape to Margaritaville. The show will include some of Buffett’s classic tunes, such as “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and “Volcano.” This musical is under the direction of Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley (“Come From Away,” “Memphis”). February is your chance to take a tropical vacation to the Marquis Theatre.
5. ‘Springsteen on Broadway’ (October 2017)
This season, fall doesn’t just bring pumpkin spice lattes — it also introduces a unique solo show playing at the Walter Kerr Theatre. The legendary Bruce Springsteen makes his Broadway debut in a production of incomparable musical storytelling. Is there anything more we can say?
6. ‘Mean Girls’ (March 2018)
With a book by Tina Fey and a stellar creative team behind the scenes, this musical adaptation of the iconic 2004 movie is sure to be SO fetch. The Broadway cast has yet to be announced, but previews will include Erika Henningsen as Cady and Taylor Louderman, Kate Rockwell and Ashley Park as The Plastics.
7. ‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ (November 2017)
Anyone who isn’t a diehard fan of the TV show might be wondering what Bikini Bottom’s favorite sponge is doing in the middle of New York City. However, the musical’s pre-Broadway engagement garnered rave reviews and is sure to capture new audiences with its fun, feel-good story, spectacular music and memorable characters.
8. ‘My Fair Lady’ (April 2018)
Acclaimed director Bartlett Sher has brought to life beautiful revivals of “South Pacific,” “The King and I” and other classic shows. In 2018, he’ll bring a new generation of theatre-goers the beloved Lerner and Loewe musical, “My Fair Lady.” If it’s a traditional yet larger-than-life night of theatre you’re looking for, make sure to book your tickets to this show.
9. ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child’ (April 2018)
The magic of the Wizarding World hits the Broadway stage this spring! J.K. Rowling’s latest installment, co-written by Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, follows the story of Harry and friends in their adult years as they take on their most difficult task yet: parenthood. Harry’s son, Albus, is the focus of the story, alongside a number of familiar faces from the original series.
10. ‘Pretty Woman’ (Fall 2018)
As one of the best rom-coms in Hollywood history, Garry Marshall’s “Pretty Woman” was almost dedicated to make its way to the Broadway stage sooner or later. The new musical will star Samantha Barks (Eponine in the 2012 film version of “Les Misérables”) and Steve Kazee (“Once” on Broadway).
What Broadway musical are you most excited for? Share in the comments below!
[post_title] => 10 Broadway-Bound Shows Every Theatre Nerd Should Know About
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => 10-broadway-bound-shows-every-theatre-nerd-know
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-10-23 10:01:48
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-23 14:01:48
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12111
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
[16] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 12057
[post_author] => 1
[post_date] => 2017-10-18 09:40:55
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-18 13:40:55
[post_content] => ‘Newsies’
Not every musical movie is actually set on a stage, but this high-energy show is taped inside a theatre. It’s chock-full of amazing choreography and features original members of the Broadway cast. This Netflix watch is about as close your couch can get to sitting in a New York City theatre.
‘Shrek the Musical’
In similar fashion, we’re happy to report you can still stream this fairy tale of ogre-ish proportions. It stars Broadway names such as Brian d’Arcy James and Sutton Foster and ties in nicely with the creepy, crawly Halloween season. Be warned: This fantastical musical is more silly than spooky!
‘Beauty and the Beast’
She really is a funny girl, that Belle! The live action film featuring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens is one of Netflix’s newest additions. While this latest version may differ from the theatrical productions of “Beauty and the Beast,” it still includes iconic tunes such as “Be Our Guest” and “Something There.” It’s the perfect movie musical when you need a little Disney magic.
‘Anastasia’
While this Russian royal currently graces the Great White Way, she also reigns on Netflix in this beloved 1997 animated feature. Rom-com queen Meg Ryan lends her voice to Princess Anastasia, with actor John Cusack voicing cartoon heartthrob Dmitri. Pregame for your trip to the Broadhurst Theatre with this musical masterpiece.
‘Chicago’
The year is 1924, and the merry murderesses of Cook County Jail are fierce and fabulous — mostly because they’re shimmying to the “Cell Block Tango,” “Roxie” and “I Can’t Do It Alone.” Pop some popcorn and experience glitz and glamor in this screen adaptation.
‘Grease’
Summer lovin’ happened so fast — and now it’s fall. However, you can still sing along to this Netflix stream if you’re in the mood for some greased lightning. Celebrate the back-to-school season with Danny, Sandy, Rizzo and the rest of the students from Rydell High.
‘The Last Five Years’
Experience a modern tale of love and loss featuring Broadway’s own Jeremy Jordan and Hollywood starlet Anna Kendrick. “The Last Five Years” touches on relatable relationship issues and showcases heartfelt songs (penned by Jason Robert Brown”) that you’ll be humming all day long.
‘High School Musical’
Autumn often means the return of homework, studying and midterms. Get your head in the game for school (or work) by relieving this melodious Disney Channel original. Go Wildcats!
‘White Christmas’
It may only be October, but it won’t be long until the holiday season arrives. If you’re counting down the days until Christmas, why not tune into this Irving Berlin classic? There’s snow reason not to.
Have a favorite musical on Netflix? Share in the comments below...
[post_title] => Every Broadway Musical Movie On Netflix This Fall [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => every-broadway-musical-movie-netflix-fall [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-18 16:19:58 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-18 20:19:58 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12057 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [17] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12046 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2017-10-16 09:27:35 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-16 13:27:35 [post_content] => Walking into the Neil Simon Theatre, I had no idea what to expect from seeing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Cats” for the first time. I’ll be honest, I was nervous. Like any other theatre aficionado, I had heard both the good and the bad about the iconic musical. Nonetheless, despite what I’d been told, I grabbed my ticket and headed into the junkyard. Ten minutes into the production, I was in love. Experiencing the choreography, costumes, makeup and music, I instantly realized why “Cats” has become an international phenomenon. Sure, it has its issues — it’s not an emotional rollercoaster like “Dear Evan Hansen” or a global game-changer like “Hamilton — but it’s an undeniably fun and entertaining show. Of course, I left the theatre with some questions, both for the actors and the creative team. Here are eight questions I kept thinking about on the subway home that you’ll probably also think when you see “Cats” for the first time:1. How Do The Actors Not Go Crazy?
While I loved the music, it took me roughly three weeks to get “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” out of my head. Whether I was getting ready, at work or sleeping, I was entrapped by the catchy tune. Imagine singing it eight times a week for a year? Yep, I’d go crazy. That’s definitely some musical theatre overload.
2. How Do The Cats Keep Their Makeup Intact?
If you didn’t already know, “Cats” is an incredibly dance-heavy show. From flips to turns to every trick in the book, it’s one of the most physical shows on Broadway. Yet somehow, each cat’s extensive makeup stays intact throughout the entire production. Literally, how? It must be some of that Broadway magic.
3. Am I Mungojerrie or Rumpleteazer?
Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer have one of my absolute favorite numbers in the show. And while the thieving duo are quite similar, they both have their quirks. The question on hand is, am I a Mungojerrie or a Rumpleteazer? Either way, nothing’s as fun as a mischievous evening in the junkyard.
4. Will I Ever Get ‘Memory’ Out of My Memory?
Much like “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats,” Grizabella’s eleven o’clock number, “Memory,” is one of the most memorable songs of the musical. While it’s a gorgeous tune, I once again found myself stuck with her shrieks for love running through my ears wherever I went. At this point, I’ve accepted my fate. I am turning into a “Cats” jukebox.
5. Where Is Macavity?
‘Nuff said.
6. Where Is the Heaviside Layer?
At the end of the show, one of the cats is chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer to start its new life. Confusing? Yes. But the real question is, where exactly is the Heaviside Layer? Heaven? The North Pole? Who really knows?
7. How Are the Performers Still Alive?
Seriously, though. “Cats” is an incredibly demanding show. My knees were aching from just watching it. While all Broadway dancers have to take care of their bodies, the actors in “Cats” take a healthy living to a whole new level. Shoutout to them.
8. Can I Be a Jellicle Cat?
Please, Andrew Lloyd Webber. There’s truly nothing I want more.
What questions did you have after you saw “Cats?” Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 8 Questions You Ask After Seeing ‘Cats’ For The First Time [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 8-questions-ask-seeing-cats-first-time [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-16 09:27:35 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-16 13:27:35 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12046 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [18] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12036 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-10-13 09:52:21 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-13 13:52:21 [post_content] => It’s not enough to ace the dancing and acting portions of your audition — singing is a must-have skill for any musical theatre performer trying to make it big in the Big Apple. To help, here are pieces of advice from professional New York City musical theatre performers, musical theatre directors, coaches and audition accompanists:1. Mara Jill Herman
Mara Jill Herman has worked Off-Broadway and has toured nationally in “Jesus Christ Superstar” and internationally through “Disney on Classic” in Japan and cruise ships. Here’s her advice for auditions:
“Take risks in auditions! It’s OK to gender-bend if the story you’re telling evokes your desired character. Changing the lyrics to a well-known song can also help display your comedic chops and land you a callback or ultimate booking. But, be respectful and know your audience!”
2. Christopher McGovern
Christopher McGovern is an award-winning writer, librettist, composer, lyricist, pianist, musical director and arranger, CD producer and educator. His current credits include libretto/original songs and arrangements for the regional hits “Lizzie Borden,” “Backwards in High Heels,,” “Cagney” (which can currently be seen at the El Portal Theatre in Los Angeles) and “Dr. Radio, among others. He also did music and lyrics for the “Let the Memories Begin” castle projection show at U.S. Disney parks. He’s also done extensive concert work with many artists, including Roslyn Kind, Jason Graae, Liz Callaway, Karen Mason and Tony nominees Susan Egan, Christiane Noll, Charles Busch and Alison Fraser. Here’s his advice:
“Sing a selection appropriate to the score for which you are auditioning, and sing it in your own unique voice. Your storytelling and your vocal chops are both important. Be a musician, and don’t ‘skrelt’ at us. And, for god’s sake, never ‘snap’ the tempo to your accompanist — they might just happen to be the composer of the show.”
3. Seth Bisen-Hersh
Seth Bisen-Hersh has completed the score for “Trivial Pursuits” (music), “Meaningless Sex” (music/lyrics), “The Spickner Spin” (music/co-lyrics), “More to Love” (music/lyrics), “Stanley’s Party” (music/lyrics) and “Love Quirks” (music/lyrics). He has played for Broadway auditions and hundreds of Off-Broadway, LORT, summer stock, cruise line, reading, workshop and festival auditions. Furthermore, he has been musically directing and accompanying cabarets, readings and showcases in the city since 2003. Here’s what he had to say about auditions:
“Don’t be a character — be yourself. Choose a likeable, optimistic, upbeat comic (unless you’re going in for something truly unfunny) number. I know it’s hard, but the reasons for casting people are so arbitrary and subjective, the best thing to do is go in, have as much fun as possible and then forget you had an audition.”
4. Rebecca Larkin
Rebecca Larkin has been seen on Broadway in “South Pacific” and “Avenue Q,” as well as in TV, film, regional theatre and cruise ships. She also coaches musical theatre performers. Here’s her advice:
“Find a 16-bar cut of what you do best (your favorite style, something that makes people laugh, shows off your money notes, breaks their hearts, whatever makes you light up because you love doing it) and try to use it as often as possible. They want to see you be great at something more than they need the absolute perfect song. Of course, don’t bring legit to a ‘Hamilton’ audition, but within reason, many styles do overlap each other.
“Practice your audition piece in the shoes and outfit you plan on wearing. Different heels can change where you put your weight. Figuring out you inadvertently suck in your stomach in a certain dress is better to find out at home rather than in the room when you suddenly run out of air mid-note. The fewer surprises in there, the better!”
5. Chris Giordano’s
Chris Giordano’s national tour credits include “Broadway Christmas Wonderland” and “The Berenstain Bears Live!” and he has many regional performing credits as well. As a teaching artist and a member of the Educational Theatre Association, he has taught theatre classes with Inside Broadway, AMDA’s High School Summer Conservatory, Kidville, Brooklyn Acting Lab, Camp Broadway, the Boys and Girls Club, the Putney School Summer Program in Vermont and many public schools. He is the current managing director of Theatre Now New York and produced Sound Bites 4.0, a festival of 10-minute musicals at the Signature Theatre. His advice?
“Make sure [you make] at least one bold choice, whether [it’s] the song you sing or acting beat.”
What was the best piece of advice you received about singing during auditions? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Vocal Audition Advice From 5 NYC Pros [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => vocal-audition-advice-5-nyc-pros [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-04 20:06:17 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-05 00:06:17 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12036 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [19] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12011 [post_author] => 766 [post_date] => 2017-10-10 08:33:00 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-10 12:33:00 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=58] [post_title] => Quiz: How Many Of These Classic Musicals Do You Know? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-many-classic-musicals-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-10 08:33:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-10 12:33:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12011 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [20] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 12013 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-10-06 09:31:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-06 13:31:37 [post_content] => The time of the Great Pumpkin is upon us again. With October in full swing, Halloween preparations have already begun. What better way to get in the mood than with the perfect playlist? Whether you prefer tricks or treats, scary or sweet, we’ve got you covered for your Halloween musical playlist picks. Here are a few Broadway cast recordings to help you get in that Halloween spirit:1. ‘The Phantom of the Opera at the Royal Albert Hall’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jUTQarYXSSo&list=PL0R2Hl-K6ARyo_7RF15Sbmf3SV558TZ0-&index=6 Combine mystery, murder and a haunted opera house, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a spooky musical. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s take on the classic French novel by Gaston Leroux will leave you feeling both enchanted and haunted.2. ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8t4Ny39tt8&index=1&list=PLYfAbaAAM7dOv_PjPQqMatagZqnjLuv3- From the very first note of the organ, there is a foreboding tone to this recording that is confirmed moments later by a screaming whistle. Stephen Sondheim’s dark and gruesome tale of the psychotic barber of Fleet Street is not for the faint of heart.3. ‘Wicked (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fplGR59YHHs Witches are as synonymous with Halloween as pumpkins! So, it makes sense to include the origin story of the most famous witch in pop culture, who was on the scene long before Hermione Granger.4. ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Soundtrack from the Motion Picture)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vBrSWZnB9c The title of the show in red typeface dripping blood sets the stage for a horror extravaganza of epic proportions. While “Time Warp” is arguably the song heard most often around Halloween, the rest of the album holds other ace choices that are perfect for your party playlist.5. ‘Evil Dead: Original Broadway Cast Album’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EN_wnHYOxkE The flavor of “Evil Dead” is “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” meets any horror movie set in the woods ever. The cast sings and dances as they battle demons and each other while trying to survive a weekend in a remote cabin.6. ‘Into The Woods (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LiGRPYmTFV0&index=1&list=PL171AD3631237030A This one is a little more twisted fairy tale than Halloween horror, but it has a witch in it and the music is classic Sondheim, so we’re including it anyway.7. ‘Young Frankenstein (Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTLRLtkrN-c Another horror parody, the stage adaptation of the famous Mel Brooks movie has a few show-stopping numbers that could replace the “Monster Mash” on your Halloween playlist.8. ‘Little Shop of Horrors (Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQJagD96X8U Disney superstar Alan Menken found his first hit with this dark musical comedy about a mutant Venus flytrap that feeds on humans.9. ‘Jekyll and Hyde — The Musical (1997 Original Broadway Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzVbFBRnk_s&index=16&list=PLjXQ_rLk0ogaVqkK_mrtp1VYs51qk0oUN One of Broadway’s lesser-known musicals, “Jekyll and Hyde” is as dark as the original story on which it’s based. The classic tragic tale of a dangerous alter ego boasts some haunting pieces about the murderous doctor terrorizing London.10. ‘The Addams Family (Soundtrack from the Musical)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uzIS652wn0 The “Addams Family” theme song has long been a popular Halloween track. But now that everyone’s famous spooky family has joined the theatre world, there is a whole soundtrack of delightfully kooky tracks to enjoy.11. ‘Carrie: The Musical (Premiere Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sr2MNQDdfs0&list=PLOzQWybIvc7ce-MUFF_IqgKctH2ov0kqo Based on Stephen King’s popular terror-inducing novel, the musical soundtrack features up-and-comers such as Molly Ranson alongside current Broadway stars such as Derek Klena and Christy Altomare of “Anastasia.”12. ‘Heathers: The Musical (World Premiere Cast Recording)’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAmmc7VFiZY&list=PLsKQ_-bOmMesrFyPdBYeOH-f2R2dTR8HH The cult-classic film about a set of sinister and complex high schoolers first made its way to Broadway in 2014. The rock musical’s soundtrack is edgy with dark undertones and an ominous feel, making it a must-have for your Halloween playlist. Now, go dance the night away and remember to let the stage inspire you this Halloween season!What’s your favorite cast recording for Halloween? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 12 Halloween-Themed Cast Recordings To Get You In A Spooky Mood [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 12-halloween-themed-cast-recordings-get-spooky-mood [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-06 09:31:37 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-06 13:31:37 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=12013 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [21] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11902 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-10-04 09:56:13 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-04 13:56:13 [post_content] => [viralQuiz id=57] [post_title] => Quiz: Tell Us Your Favorite Things About Fall And We'll Tell You Your Favorite Show Tune [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-tell-us-favorite-things-fall-well-tell-favorite-show-tune [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-05 13:51:13 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-05 17:51:13 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11902 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 8 [filter] => raw ) [22] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11903 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-10-03 10:05:32 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-03 14:05:32 [post_content] => The first “Lord of the Rings” movie came out when I was in my early teens, and like many others, I developed a pretty serious crush on Legolas. I should clarify — not Orlando Bloom, the actor. I mean Legolas, the elf character. I saw the movie multiple times, drew pictures of him, and even redecorated my room like a forest (a choice I later regretted). While I was fully aware he was a made-up character, I could not help my obsessive crush on this fictional man with hair better than my own.
As I grew up, this translated itself more tangibly in my choice of crushes both onstage and offstage. Developing a crush on someone I was acting with in a show was a pretty regular occurrence. For further proof, check out my article, “ What I Learned From My First Showmance.”
The problem was, much like my Mirkwood fantasy man, I found myself attracted to the character and not the person behind it. It’s so easy to fall for a created character, especially if the actor portrays him or her in a relatable way that strikes a chord with the audience. Character lust can easily be confused for a real crush, and those of us onstage are even more susceptible to it.
Worried this might be happening to you? Here are some ways to tell if your crush is real or fictional:
Real Crush: Their actual name.
Character Lust: Their character’s name. That was an easy one.
Real Crush: Going to the movies, dinner, bowling or other real-world activities.
Character Lust: Hanging out at the theatre. You are both there at the same time. It’s practically a date.
Real Crush: You know their favorite color and birthday.
Character Lust: Their costume is blue, so that must be their favorite color right?
Real Crush: You get jealous when you hear someone else is into them.
Character Lust: You get jealous when they act romantically onstage with their written love interest (who is married in real life).
Real Crush: You imagine both of you together.
Character Lust: You imagine your characters together.
Real Crush: You get butterflies every time they flirt with you.
Character Lust: You get butterflies every time they say their lines.
Real Crush: You like seeing them in different roles.
Character Lust: You can’t imagine them playing anyone else.
via GIPHY
Real Crush: They have their flaws, but you like them anyway.
Character Lust: They are perfect, and no one else can compare!
Real Crush: They look good in anything.
Character Lust: They should just wear that costume. All the time. So hot.
The good news for you is that there is a cure to help you get over your fictional love. You are crushing on that character because they hold the qualities of what you are looking for in a real-life love. Ask yourself what it is you like about that character and what attracts you to them. Make a list, and use that to help you find someone with those attributes. My attraction to elven hero Legolas can be in part traced back to my love for adventure and a man who isn’t afraid to be daring. And having beautiful hair doesn’t hurt, either.
The key here is not to be afraid of your feelings. Embrace them for what they are, and use them to improve your actual love life. Who knows? You might even find a love story worthy of the stage.
Have you ever experienced character lust? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Signs That You Are Confusing Character Lust With A Real Crush [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => signs-confusing-character-lust-real-crush [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/learned-first-showmance/ [post_modified] => 2017-10-03 10:11:21 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-03 14:11:21 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11903 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 1 [filter] => raw ) [23] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11859 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-10-02 08:00:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-10-02 12:00:37 [post_content] => If you think being a dresser backstage on Broadway is just putting actors in their costumes and helping with quick changes, think again. There are many facets to the skilled trade of being a professional wardrobe person. One Broadway show could have dressers in many positions who go beyond helping actors in and out of clothes. Here is a rundown of those types of roles:Laundry Person
While you may easily do your laundry at home, doing the laundry for a Broadway show is quite the task. Shows with large casts produce lots of dirty laundry, and doing all of it can be a full-day ordeal. If costumes have beadwork, special dyes or delicate stitching, they need special care when being washed. At least one person is usually dedicated to doing the laundry every day. This includes, but is not limited to, washing and drying (whether in a machine or by hand), sorting the clean laundry and putting it away in the appropriate place. Here is an inside look at all the jobs of a dresser when “Mary Poppins” was on Broadway, with a special glimpse into the laundry room. https://youtu.be/bdfmVlEh088Beader
If a show has costumes with intricate beadwork or even sequins, a beader is usually on staff to repair these specific costumes during non-performance hours (otherwise known as doing “daywork”). Beading is certainly a learned specialized skill and requires patience. This video from “Wicked” gives you an inside look at the beading skills and prep work that went into creating the costumes, as well as an idea of the dresser skills it would take to do upkeep during a beading daywork call. https://youtu.be/-u5lcCkYznYDayworker
In addition to a bead worker, other dressers are employed to do daywork in order to prepare and check the costumes before a performance. They ensure they look as pristine as they did on opening night.
Ironing, steaming and minor repairs are all allowed. The costumes are meticulously checked for any damage and are repaired onsite. Anyone who wants to be employed as a dayworker needs to have at least basic sewing skills and be able to sew small rips and buttons, among other things.
Stitcher
A stitcher is also onsite during daywork and sometimes during showtimes. This is a dresser who is a whiz with a sewing machine. It’s also helpful if this person can do pattern-making, use a serger and operate other applicable instruments. Stitchers will repair more difficult and larger rips and holes in costumes. They may also do alterations to costumes if a new actor or swing/understudy is going in the show.
Shoe Person
During daywork, a dresser who knows how to repair and keep shoes looking like new is also employed. Shoes take a beating from everyday wear and tear and hardcore dancing, so the shoe person can give shoes a fresh coat of paint/polish, check for repairs, replace or fix any rubber or hardware and/or take the shoes to a local cobbler for a more involved fix.
Wardrobes Supervisor
The wardrobe supervisor is in charge of all the dressers and oversees all the jobs listed here. The supervisor usually was once a dresser and has moved up the ranks to become someone who is now in charge. Due to union rules, the supervisor doesn’t usually dress. Instead, he or she works with the creative team to ensure costumes come onstage and offstage accordingly, schedules and hires the dressers and is the go-between for management, actors and the costume designer.Assistant Wardrobe Supervisor
This person does exactly as the title implies. He or she assists the supervisor with managerial work and sometimes dresses actors. It takes a special kind of person to be able to assist the supervisor in everyday tasks but also take the lead when the supervisor is out of the building. In addition, an assistant can serve as an extra hand during quick changes and fill in for dressers who call out sick at the last-minute when a swing isn’t available. Here is a great backstage tour and inside scoop from wardrobe supervisor Irene Bunis when “Mamma Mia” was running on Broadway. https://youtu.be/nxKs-rB6U8EDresser
https://youtu.be/widLgDuK-nk This great video from the National Theatre gives you a tour of the daily routine of a wardrobe dresser. There are two specialized dresser positions that also can exist during the run of a show beyond a regular dressing track of ensemble or principal actors: swing dressers and star dressers. Swing dressers fill in for the regular dressers when they are out sick or on vacation. Theatres will typically spend some time training a swing for this type of episode, but not always. Swings need to be quick on their feet and meld in easily with the daily show routines of the dresser they are taking over for. Check out this video from the former company of “Billy Elliot” in London, which showcases swing dresser Lauren Adams. https://youtu.be/eTp-q2BacEs Star dressers do exactly as this title implies: dresses the names/stars of the show. Pictured below is star dresser Jennifer Hohn with Lin-Manuel Miranda backstage at “Hamilton.”
These tracks usually require extra-special care, and star dressers will sometimes act as a special assistant, guest greeter and more in addition to helping carry out the costume changes with his or her actress. Many times, a star of a show will take their star dresser with them from show to show, since they are familiar with their work and have a good rapport. If you are meticulous and a people-person, this is a great job for you!
Have you worked or do you want to work in any of these areas? Share in the comments below
[post_title] => Beyond The Quick Change: The Many Jobs Of A Broadway Dresser [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => beyond-quick-change-many-jobs-broadway-dresser [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-10-02 17:55:06 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-10-02 21:55:06 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11859 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [24] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 10159 [post_author] => 886 [post_date] => 2017-09-30 10:51:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-30 14:51:18 [post_content] =>School of Rock the musical is full of different kids, but which one are you?
[post_title] => Which School of Rock Kid Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => school-rock-kid [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-30 10:51:38 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-30 14:51:38 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=10159 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [25] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11724 [post_author] => 1121 [post_date] => 2017-09-28 12:50:44 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-28 16:50:44 [post_content] => Can you guess these musicals based on a single lyric? Give it a try! [post_title] => Quiz: Can You Guess These Musicals Based On One Random Song Lyric? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => can-guess-musicals-based-one-random-song-lyric [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-28 12:52:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-28 16:52:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=11724 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [26] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11812 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-09-27 10:09:43 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-27 14:09:43 [post_content] => Whether on Broadway or beyond, working backstage can be fun, challenging, stressful and rewarding. Additionally, the skills you learn while working backstage can easily transition into real life in the seven following ways:1. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Theatre is a collaborative art form, and it takes a cast of thousands onstage and offstage working together as a team to make a show go off without a hitch.
Life Lesson: Be sure to include teamwork in your real life, whether it’s in another career endeavor, playing a sport, relationships, family or even achieving life goals. There’s no need to go it alone. So much can be achieved with a little help from a friend, colleague or mentor.
2. Problem-Solving
If you can’t problem-solve, you certainly can’t work backstage. You must not be afraid to fix an issue quickly when sets, costumes and props break or something else goes amiss.
Life Lesson: Bring this type of problem-solving into your real life. Take initiative to act quickly to fix things when they go wrong, whether it be at home, at school or at a job.
3. Multitasking
Who says you can’t do two things at once? How about three or four? How about doing a quick change with an actor while presetting another change for a different actor and safety-pinning a rip in a third actor’s costume? Think this hasn’t happened? Think again!
Life Lesson: Multitasking not just backstage can help you achieve goals faster, use your time more wisely and get so many things done. Even your parents will be impressed!
4. Trust Your Instincts
Trusting your instincts while you are problem-solving backstage is imperative when you only have 30 seconds for a quick change or a very short blackout. The show won’t stop to fix a mishap!
Life Lesson: Remembering to listen to your inner voice will always be the right choice, whether you’re choosing the right audition song, picking your future college/university or aiming to make a big life decision.
5. Be Nice to Everyone
Doing theatre means working closely with everyone onstage and backstage for long hours. Creating a positive working environment is a must and is the direct result of everyone being nice to one another despite individual idiosyncrasies.
Life Lesson: Remembering to be nice to everyone no matter your environment will bring you many friends, supportive teachers, mentors and colleagues who will help guide and support you throughout your life journey.
6. No One’s Job Is Easy
Looking at the other guy hooking up a microphone while you’re handling a costume emergency may make you think he has the easiest job in the world. Think again! What if that mic goes out or is positioned in such a way that the sound doesn’t work correctly?
Life Lesson: No one’s job is easy. Reminding yourself that everyone has challenges and obstacles to overcome can help you when you’re struggling. You are not alone.
7. Rest
Theatre is exhausting, and rest is imperative to ensure you are at your best so the show can go off smoothly.
Life Lesson: If you don’t get enough sleep before that big test, upcoming audition or even a vacation, you won’t have as much fun or be able to fully enjoy the experience or carry it out with vigor. Take your time to treat yourself kindly and get some zzz’s to recharge your battery.
What life lessons have you learned from working backstage? Let us know in the comments below
[post_title] => 7 Life Lessons Learned From Working Backstage [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 7-life-lessons-learned-working-backstage [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-27 10:09:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-27 14:09:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11812 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 5 [filter] => raw ) [27] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11803 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-09-26 11:30:31 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-26 15:30:31 [post_content] => Yes, that’s your name up on that list! It doesn’t matter if you are 16 or 60 — going out for a role for community theatre can be daunting, especially when you aren’t sure what to expect. Creative teams will often assume members already know what’s required of them and won’t spell it out. To help you out, here is our advice for community theatre first-timers:Auditions
1. Avoid picking a song from the show for which you are auditioning. Choose something that showcases your vocals and acting ability.
2. Come prepared with everything they’ve asked for and more. Having a second song ready can be helpful, just in case.
3. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. It will help steady your nerves.
4. If there is a dance audition, make sure you have proper attire and don’t hide in the back. They can’t cast you if they can’t see you.
5. Don’t let the talent of the other auditionees psyche you out. You never know what the creative team is looking for, and it might be something you have!
Rehearsals
1 Show up on time. This cannot be stressed enough. You are a part of a team. Being late without an exceptional reason gives the impression you feel your time is more valuable than others’.
2. If you are sick or can’t make it, be sure to contact your director. They don’t need to waste rehearsal time tracking you down. If you are an integral part of that session’s rehearsal, they might use the advance notice to alter the rehearsal and work on something else instead.
3. When you miss a rehearsal, take the initiative to find out what you missed and get caught up before the next rehearsal.
4. Always have a pencil on hand. You will need to jot down stage directions and notes as they happen. Don’t leave it until the end of rehearsal, or you may forget things. The creative team will be annoyed if they have to tell you a second time.
5. Whether you’re playing the leading role or a mute tree, give it 100 percent. Every person who is part of the show is integral to the finished product. If you want to earn larger roles, show the creative team you can handle more by being the best at whatever you’re given and doing it with a smile.
6. There will be regulars and already established friend groups. Don’t let it intimidate you. If it does, find other newbies in the cast and start there. Then, get to know everyone as you work on scenes together. Just being friendly and saying hello goes a long way.
7. Another way to bond with members of the production and get involved is to help out with backstage tasks when you have downtime. Making props, helping build or strike the set, marking up the floor or even just tidying up the stage or rehearsal space are all good options.
8. Every production has drama going on backstage and onstage. Try to stay out of it. If you find yourself involved, diffuse the situation to the best of your ability. Keeping the group as cohesive as possible will ensure the best performance onstage.
9. In some companies or groups, you will be required to provide your costumes. Establish that as early as you can and start hunting for those perfect pieces. Don’t leave it to the last minute, or you may end up disappointed.
10. If you are responsible for getting your own costumes, be sure the director approves of all your choices. Don’t wait for them to see the costumes onstage during dress rehearsal. If they tell you what you chose isn’t going to work, you’ll be left scrambling at the last minute.
11. You will be expected to practice and review on your time. Showing up to a rehearsal unprepared is unfair to your fellow castmates and the creative team. Block out a small pocket of time a few times a week to go over what you’ve learned.
12. Ask questions if you are confused or need something repeated. Don’t be embarrassed — someone else may have the same question and is also afraid to speak up. Giving a poor performance will be far more embarrassing, so get clarification if you need it.
13. If you have a conflict, speak to that person directly, if you can, or take it to the director. Avoid spreading gossip at all costs. The worst thing you can do is talk to someone else in the cast. The more people involved, the bigger the problem gets.
14. Don’t take constructive criticism of your performance personally. A lot of first-timers will get upset if the director or choreographer corrects them or asks them to change what they’re doing. They are just trying to make the show the best it can be, and their approach may not be the same as yours. Keep your chin up, listen to what they are saying and take everything in stride.
15. Make sure you warm up before every rehearsal. There may not always be time to warm up as a group, so leave yourself a few moments to stretch your limbs and vocal chords.
16. Keep the diva moments to a minimum. Respectfully voicing your ideas to members of the creative time is fine, but it’s ultimately up to them to decide how the show is put on.
17. It is good to try new things and grow as an artist, but if you are really uncomfortable with something, speak to the director about it. Most are very accommodating and will do their best to rework it.
18. Be patient. There will be a fair bit of standing around and waiting for others. Keeping a positive attitude will help maintain a pleasant and creative environment.
Tech Week
1. Tech week is grueling. Go into it with that in mind, and you will avoid an unpleasant surprise.
2. Be patient. There are a lot of elements at play, and everyone is tired and on edge. Emotions run very high during this period, and a little bit of patience can go a long way toward avoiding a major incident.
3. Stay positive. Tech week rehearsals are notorious for having everything go wrong that can, but 99 percent of the time, it all turns out okay in the end.
4. Stay focused. There will be a lot going on, and this is when injuries can happen. Adding set pieces, costumes, props, lighting and sound can cause a lot of confusion. There will be people everywhere. Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t get distracted by what others are doing.
5. Do everything you can to stay healthy. The stress, rehearsals and physical demands will take their toll on you. Be preventative by doing things that keep you relaxed, drinking lots of water, resting when you can, taking vitamins and staying warm.
6. Do not schedule anything social during this week. You will not make it to that. Tech week is very demanding, and adding commitments will just add to your stress.
7. Keep your area of the dressing room as neat and organized as you can. Quick changes are a recipe for lost items, so try to have designated places for your things. A storage container for makeup and hair items, a bag for shoes, a bag for laundry, your own hangers and clothing bag for costumes and a general bag or suitcase to store it all in can be beneficial.
8. Make sure you label all your things with your name or initials. That way, if they are misplaced, you’re more likely to recover them.
9. Bring your own small mirror. There are never enough mirrors for everyone, and you’ll need one.
10. Always have water on hand. It gets extremely warm onstage and in dressing rooms, and the last thing you want is to pass out or get sick from dehydration.
11. If you can, do as much preparation at home before you go to the theatre. It will help you stay relaxed among the backstage frenzy.
Performance
1. Invite your friends and family as soon as you know the date of the show. Booking people ahead of time will ensure you have some friendly faces in the crowd to give you that extra energy during the performance.
2. Promote your show as much as you can. Tell everyone you know and advertise it on your social media. The more people there are in seats, the better it is for the group.
3. If something goes wrong or you mess up, don’t let it break your focus. Treat it like it was intentional and keep going. It’s unlikely the audience will even realize or remember.
4. Give every performance as much energy as opening night. Most people in the crowd will be seeing the show for the first time and deserve the best performance possible.
5. Keep track of your cues. It’s easy to get distracted backstage, and there’s nothing worse than an angry stage manager tracking you down.
6. Treat your backstage crew with respect. They are the unsung heroes of every show, work just as hard as the cast onstage and are often unrecognized for their contributions. Be sure to thank them when you see them around.
7. Don’t eat in your costume. If your stage manager finds out, you’ll live to regret it.
8. Use the bathroom before the show starts and at intermission. It sounds silly, but it can mess up your focus if you need to go. Plus, trying to go to the restroom with your costume on can be really tough.
9. Nerves are completely normal and expected. Try to channel that energy into each performance. Keep yourself from freaking out by taking everything one step at a time, one scene at a time. Breaking it down into smaller chunks will make it less frightening and more manageable.
10. Don’t freak out if the audience doesn’t laugh or react when they are expected to. Some audiences are more reactive than others. It doesn’t mean they didn’t find it funny or enjoyable — they might just be more reserved theatergoers.
11. When it’s all over, be sure to thank everyone involved. Appreciation is always remembered.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of community theatre, but before you know it, the show will close its last performance. Whether it’s your first show or your 20th, try to enjoy each moment and each experience for what it is: pure magic.
What advice would you give someone joining community theatre for the first time? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => A Beginners Guide To Community Theatre [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => beginners-guide-community-theatre [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2018-10-18 12:59:26 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-18 16:59:26 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11803 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 11 [filter] => raw ) [28] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11711 [post_author] => 714 [post_date] => 2017-09-25 09:12:07 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-25 13:12:07 [post_content] => We’ve all been there. You prepare hours and hours to nail the perfect song for your next audition. Your music is perfectly printed, you have a killer outfit and you’re sucking on a Thayers Slippery Elm lozenge as you head out the door. However, when you get to the audition, you hear, “Do you have any other songs prepared? Maybe something more [insert strange adjective here].” Your heart stops, and you freeze. You don’t have anything else! You don’t sing another song, you leave the audition and you don’t get the role. Don’t let this be you. The No. 1 thing you have to be as an actor is prepared. This means having a ton of songs in your audition book that you can pull out at a moment’s notice. After all, you could get a call today that you have an audition and have no time to learn something new. You must have an arsenal of material that you can hit out of the park at all times. Here’s a breakdown of the types of songs you should have in your audition book:1. Golden Age
The Golden Age (anything from 1940 to the 1960s) is a musical era you must have in your book. Ideally, you’d have at least one Rodgers and Hammerstein song in there.
2. Jazz Standards (American Songbook)
For this genre, think of the tunes made famous by Frank Sinatra. Jessie Mueller once told the story of how she auditioned for “On a Clear Day You Can See Forever” and sang, “It Might as Well Be Spring” from “State Fair.” They immediately asked her if she had anything more jazzy to fit the style of the show. She didn’t have anything, so she asked the accompanist to speed up her original song and sang the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic as if she were Ella Fitzgerald. She got the job.
The moral of the story is to make sure you have a jazz standard in your book — or be prepared to do some major musical tweaking on the spot if you don’t.
3. Sondheim
Most people say to never sing Sondheim, but if you can handle his crazy rhythms and phrasings at the drop of a hat, you’ll be sure to impress the casting team.
4. Rock Musical
This is what you need for shows like “Rent,” “Rock of Ages,” “American Idiot,” “Spring Awakening” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
5. Contemporary
I call this the Jason Robert Brown-style song. Look for standalone cabaret songs, such as those from Goldrich and Heisler or Kerrigan and Lowdermilk.
6. Pop
With more recording artists such as Sara Bareilles and Carole King dipping their toes into Broadway, it’s good to have a Top 40 song in your book.
7. Disney
Disney has such a strong presence on Broadway that if you are a working musical theatre actor, you probably already have done or will do a Disney production one day. Examples include “Mary Poppins,” “Newsies,” “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.”
This is just a list to start you out with getting more variety in your book. There are many other types of songs that would be great to have for an audition. Also, keep in mind that while your book should vary in musical genre, you should also have a good mix of up-tempo and ballad songs. Best of luck with your future auditions!
Think of another type of song to have in your audition book? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => 7 Types Of Songs That Should Be In Your Audition Book [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 7-types-songs-audition-book [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-25 09:12:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-25 13:12:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11711 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 4 [filter] => raw ) [29] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11644 [post_author] => 391 [post_date] => 2017-09-22 09:27:58 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-22 13:27:58 [post_content] => Act 1 finales such as “One Day More,” “A New Argentina” and “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going” thrill audiences and keep them excited for the next half of the show. Whether it’s a show-stopping solo, a rousing ensemble number or a subtle encounter between two lovers, Act 1 finales are crucial to any great musical. In no particular order, here are 16 of our favorite contemporary Act 1 finales, with “contemporary” meaning anything from “Rent” onward:1. ‘Defying Gravity’ from ‘Wicked’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glsmLGpqMzA No one can bring down this epic Act 1 closer, complete with an electric platform sending Elphaba as high as her top notes!2. ‘Non Stop’ from ‘Hamilton’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjc5bLdtB64 Similar to “One Day More,” this finale uses counterpoint in the final minute as all the characters prepare for the next phase in history.3. ‘So Much Better’ from ‘Legally Blonde: The Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Br50XFvrsp8 Elle Woods rests her case as an up-and-coming lawyer by scoring an internship with Professor Callahan.4. ‘You Will Be Found’ from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssCFUdXQAqw The shy, awkward Evan Hansen devises the Connor Project to keep the memory of his deceased “friend” alive.5. ‘The Ball’ from ‘Natasha, Pierre, and the Great Comet of 1812’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7Hx7XgJ1IQ Seduced by Anatole, Natasha is sucked into an affair of astronomical proportions.6. ‘Blackout’ from ‘In the Heights’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0V2cCjf1Tk Here’s another fantastic Lin-Manuel Miranda finale that will have the whole barrio on its feet!7. ‘La Vie Boheme’ from ‘Rent’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIOV74lFW78 Honestly, what’s better than seeing a group of artists spontaneously turning dinner into a tribute to their idols and inspirations?8. ‘Esmeralda’ from ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrU94AinA08 The glorious melodies and harmonies in this ensemble number ring out like the bells of the famous Paris cathedral.9. ‘Bottom’s Gonna Be On Top’ from ‘Something Rotten!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSvDzg3Up70 This Shakespeare-themed number is chock-full of references and subtle one-liners from the Bard’s own characters interacting with one another.10. ‘Man Up’ from ‘The Book of Mormon’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzUGL6BGMc4 After being let go by Elder Price, Elder Cunningham takes advantage of an opportunity to teach the Ugandan people about the Mormon faith.11. ‘Conga’ from ‘On Your Feet!’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToKC_U4x_f8 One of the best jukebox musical finales in recent years, the music of Miami Sound Machine makes it irresistible to dance along.12. ‘Here I Go Again’ from ‘Rock of Ages’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H-yrrNaIjhI This jukebox musical, a tribute to ‘80s rock hits, closes the first act with Whitesnake’s best-known song.13. ‘Stronger’ from ‘Finding Neverland’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fevDew-8oSo An encounter between J.M. Barrie and a certain “Peter Pan” character will keep you hooked for the rest of the show!14. ‘Who I’d Be’ from ‘Shrek the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZWGsOJhBs4 This monster-level number features Shrek opening up about who he’d be if he weren’t an ogre.15. ‘Bad Idea’ from ‘Waitress the Musical’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nscV-V48k7A Jenna and Dr. Pomatter serve the audience some serious chemistry in this fast-paced duet.16. ‘Astonishing’ from ‘Little Women’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pNO71-yVN4 One of Sutton Foster’s signature numbers, this finale finds Jo March resolving to conquer her future.You May Also Enjoy: 15 Best Contemporary Opening Numbers In Musicals
Did we leave out your favorite contemporary Act 1 finale? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => Top 16 Contemporary Act 1 Finales [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => top-16-contemporary-act-1-finales [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/15-best-contemporary-opening-numbers-musicals/ [post_modified] => 2018-09-30 18:22:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-09-30 22:22:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11644 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 3 [filter] => raw ) [30] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11509 [post_author] => 736 [post_date] => 2017-09-19 09:18:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-19 13:18:34 [post_content] => Got the moves? Want to work on Broadway and beyond? Here is some great audition advice from Broadway’s professional dancers:1. Nili Bassman
Nili Bassman has been seen on Broadway in “Curtains,” “Never Gonna Dance” and “Chicago.” Here’s her advice:
“The most important thing to bring into a room at a Broadway dance audition (or any audition, for that matter) is you. One-of-a-kind, beautiful, flawed you. Directors, choreographers and music directors want to see individuals with points of views — dancers with an awareness of who they are and access to all of that beautiful uniqueness. Steps can be refined and drilled during rehearsals, but presence, passion, creativity and personality cannot be taught. You’ve studied technique your entire life. Trust that. The audition room is the place to leave class behind and dance from your soul. All dancers are actors. We tell stories with our bodies. So, use the choreography presented to you to tell a story. Bring your life experience to the dance and make it your own. Have fun! Think of every audition as an opportunity to perform and leave your heart and soul and joy in the room. That is why we dance. That is why others are moved by dance. And yes, warm up, eat a snack and bring water and extra shoes!”
2. Correy West
Correy West has been seen on Broadway in “Nice Work If You Can Get It” and “South Pacific.”
Here’s his advice:
“I think the most important thing in a dance audition is to know your strengths and use them to your advantage. I used to spend so much time getting intimidated by the guys who were the most flexible or the ones who could do the most turns, but at the end of the day, there is only one you. If that shines through and you feel like you couldn’t have done anything else towards getting the part when you leave the room, it was a success!”
3. Justin Boccitto
Justin Boccitto is a New York City performer, teacher, director, choreographer and producer. His work has been seen Off-Broadway, regionally and beyond. He is also the executive director of The Group Theatre Too and the creator of Choreographer’s Canvas. And, if you like what he has to say, you can take a dance class from him at Broadway Dance Center.
Here’s his advice:
“Being on the other side of the table, I find the following things extremely important at dance calls:
- Invest in some nice dancewear. If you look good and feel good in your clothes, you will exude confidence. We spot that immediately.
- Work on your kicks and turns. These are two things that I use to quickly weed people out of the mix. You want high kicks and at least a triple pirouette.
- Tell a story with the combo. Even if the choreographer hasn’t given a lot of direction, don’t be passive in your performance. Make a specific choice and commit to it.”
4. Stephanie Bissonnette
Stephanie Bissonnette is an accomplished New York City dancer who has now joined the company of “Mean Girls” as it heads toward Broadway and its first regional premiere at the National Theatre.
Here’s her advice:
“I would say my biggest advice would be to just be yourself. Often the final decision is made because of a certain minor detail. Don’t take anything personally. Just keep getting up and heading to those auditions every day. You never know which one will be the one to skyrocket your career.”
5. Jeffry Denman
Jeffry Denman is an accoladed Broadway performer (“White Christmas,” “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying,” “Cats,” “Dream”), director, choreographer, playwright, author and founder of the Denman Theatre and Dance Company. Here’s his great advice about reading for a role once you’ve made it past the dance stage:
“If you’re reading sides, get off book as much as you can. If you’ve just been given the sides, don’t worry, but if you’ve had them overnight, get off book. It is the single most effective way to get me to consider you. If I’m watching you simply look into papers, I have no idea how you are as an actor.”
What is your best advice for dance auditions? Let us know in the comments below...
Cover Photo: Broadway Dance Center
[post_title] => Dance Audition Advice From Five Broadway Pros [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => dance-audition-advice-five-broadway-pros [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-19 09:24:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-19 13:24:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11509 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [31] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11497 [post_author] => 440 [post_date] => 2017-09-18 09:43:15 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-18 13:43:15 [post_content] => Games are the perfect way to break the ice and engage people of all ages. Within the structure of a drama class, games can be used as a get-to-know-you exercise, for warm-up, to introduce or practice a new skill or just for fun.Here are 10 drama games that are ideal for your next class:
1. Park Bench
Three chairs are set up in a row at the front. Pick one person to sit on the “park bench,” aka the row of chairs. They can pretend to read the newspaper, watch the birds, etc., but they must remain seated on the bench at all times. Select a second person to be the pedestrian. Their job is to embody a character and try to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench. They are not allowed any physical contact.
If the park bench occupant laughs or leaves the bench, the pedestrian takes their place. They become the park bench occupant and the game starts over. If the pedestrian is able to get the park bench occupant to laugh or leave the bench after an allotted amount of time, a new pedestrian is selected.
2. Party Quirks
Choose one person to be the party host and ask them to leave the room briefly. Choose three people to be party guests, and have the rest of the students suggest characters for each of them (such as man on a rollercoaster, Justin Bieber, girl who has lost her pet snake, etc.). The party host comes back into the room and returns to the front.
The party starts, and the first guest enters the party. They converse with the host while in character for one minute before the next guest enters the party to converse with the host. Stagger each guest until all three guests are at the party conversing with the host and each other. The guest must stay in character at all times. At the end of five minutes, the host must guess the character for each guest.
3. One-Word Story
This can be played in a small group or large group. The teacher starts the story with one sentence (i.e., “Once upon a time, there was a princess who dreamed of being an astronaut”). Moving clockwise around the circle, each student adds one word to the story. The circle is repeated as many times as the teacher deems necessary until they feel the story is finished.
4. Giants, Wizards and Elves
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nNP9FpgdLjI You will need a larger playing space for this one — going outside or into a gymnasium is preferable. This is like a giant game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors.” Giants beat elves because they can step on them. Wizards beat giants because they can shrink them. Elves beat wizards because they are quick and can duck their magic. Divide the students into two teams and put them on either side of the playing area. Teams huddle together and choose which of the three they will play first. They will also need to have a backup in the event that the other team has selected the same one. Once both teams have chosen, they meet in the middle and face each other. The teacher calls out, “Ready, set, go!” and both teams must yell what they chose while acting it out. Whichever teams wins the face-off chases the other team back to their side and tries to tag as many players as possible. Any players they tag from the losing team must now join their team, and they continue onto the next round. The game is over when one team has all the players on its side.5. Tableau Olympics
Divide the group into teams of four to six people and have each team choose a spot around the room. The teacher calls out a scene (such as Spiderman at the scene of a bank robbery, a birthday party gone wrong or a television awards show) and then counts down from 10. Teams have 10 seconds to organize a tableau and then freeze. The teacher then goes around and views each tableau before choosing a winner for that round. The winning team receives a point. Every student from the team must participate in the tableau or the team will be disqualified from the round.
Tip: Remind the students about the use of levels and facial expressions at the start of the game.
6. Change the Channel
Choose two to four students to start onstage and give them a scene to start (such as lifeguards rescuing someone from drowning). The teacher calls, “Action!” and the students begin acting out the given scene. At any point, the teacher calls “Freeze!” and the whole scene must freeze. The teacher selects one new volunteer, and they can tap any of the people onstage to go sit down and the assume that actor’s position.
When the teacher calls “Action!” again, the person who just tapped in must start a whole new scene based on the positions the remaining actors ended in. The other actors will need to improvise and join in the new scene. It must be completely different to the scene that was happening before. Every time the teacher calls “Freeze!” new students replace the previous ones and begin a new scene.
7. Graveyard
The teacher selects one person to be a gravekeeper, and they stand off to the side. The other students lie on their backs on the ground with their eyes open. They must stay completely still, with a straight face. The gravekeeper’s job is to go around and try to make each person laugh or speak using only acting. They are not allowed to touch the person on the ground. Anyone they succeed at making laugh is alive again and joins the gravekeeper in going around and trying to make the other students laugh or speak.
8. Simon Says (Stage Directions Version)
This is a great game for helping your students learn stage directions. This game follows the usual rules of “Simon Says.” Students should only do what the caller says if they say “Simon says.” If they do not put “Simon says” in front of the instruction and the student does it anyway, they are eliminated. The teacher calls out stage directions, such as downstage right or center. Students can only move to those places on the stage if the teacher says “Simon says” in front of it. Any students who move there otherwise are eliminated. Try to keep the calls coming quickly to keep the game interesting.
9. Greetings, Your Majesty
The teacher selects one student to sit in a chair and face away from the rest of the group. Ask the student in the chair to close their eyes. Select three students from the remaining group and have each one take a turn standing behind the chair and saying, “Greetings, your majesty” in whatever voice they like. Once all three students have gone, the student in the chair must guess who each one was.
10. Directors
Choose two to three actors to be onstage. Choose a director for each actor. The directors sit at the back, and the actors play out the scene at the front. The teacher assigns the actors a scene and the first direction, and the scene begins. The actors can only do what their directors say. The directors each take a turn narrating the scene, and the actors must act it out. Whenever the teacher sees fit, they can call “Cut!” and new actors and directors are selected.
Playing drama games is a great informal benchmark for where students are at in both comfort and range. Having them engage in games continuously over the length of the course allows you to see visible progress as students learn, become more comfortable and grow their abilities. Encourage everyone to participate and watch as they flourish and have fun!
Which drama games would you recommend? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Theatre Games Perfect For Drama Class [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-theatre-games-perfect-drama-class [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-01-28 10:33:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-01-28 15:33:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11497 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [32] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11387 [post_author] => 1020 [post_date] => 2017-09-17 09:58:56 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-17 13:58:56 [post_content] => Laurence O'Keefe's biggest and best musical hit features a variety of strong female characters, including Elle Woods's spunky and supportive sorority sisters. Take this quiz to find out which one you are! [post_title] => Quiz: Which Delta Nu Are You? [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => quiz-delta-nu [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-09-17 09:59:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-17 13:59:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?post_type=snax_quiz&p=11387 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => snax_quiz [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw ) [33] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11385 [post_author] => 774 [post_date] => 2017-09-16 11:12:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-16 15:12:50 [post_content] =>[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id="smHdTcQX" upload-date="2018-09-27T16:07:28.000Z" name="Waitress Pie Pillows DIY" description="In thes episide of Broadway DIY, Katie shows us how to create perfect pie pillows. These pillows are a comfortable way to show your Waitress musical pride."]
Welcome back to another Theatre Nerds DIY project!
Today we will be making a No-Sew Pie Pillows, inspired by our beloved show, Waitress!
To begin this project, what you will need is:
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Glue (you can use both fabric glue, or hot glue)
- Pom Poms
- Felt (light brown, brown, red and blue)
- Stuffing
Instructions:
*In the tutorial I only showed working on one pillow, if you care to make more than one, just repeat the same process!* 1. We will start off by measuring out on our light brown felt, a 12 inch circle to create as the body of the pie. You will need to make two of these, as these pieces will become the pouch to make the pillow. 2. Using your fabric glue, glue 3/4 of the two light brown felt pieces together. We want to leave a hole to later fill with stuffing. Allow the pieces to sit to the side and dry. 3. After making our pie crust, take your “pie filling” color of your choosing (in the video I made a red cherry pie) and measure out an 11 inch circle. This piece will sit inside of the pie crust we just made. Once that is cut out, adhere the filling piece to the crust and let dry. 4. To make the top crust pieces, we will be taking our darker brown felt pieces, and creating strips to later weave together. I used 8 strips per pie, however you can make yours smaller, or bigger-to your liking. 5. Once the pillow has finished drying, take your brown strips and begin to weave them together using the over under method. Once you have completed this, go ahead and glue the pieces to the top piece of felt and let dry. 6. For fun decoration, take your pom poms (berries for us) and decorate the top of the pie as you see fit. This gives it a fun and cute flare! Glue the pom poms onto the desired area and set it to the side. 7. Make sure your pillow is completely dry before beginning the stuffing process. Using your own personal preferences, fill the pillow to your desired need, without filling it too much and popping the seams. Once you have filled your pillow, carefully glue the small hole closed to complete the pillow. And there it is! An adorable, no-sew pie pillow! This will get any sweet tooth jealous of your delicious taste and skills. Thank you for watching! Follow Katie on Instagram for more fun projects @kbettiniart Happy Crafting! [post_title] => 'Waitress' DIY Pie Pillows [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => waitress-diy-pie-pillows [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2019-05-08 09:57:54 [post_modified_gmt] => 2019-05-08 13:57:54 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11385 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 2 [filter] => raw ) [34] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11362 [post_author] => 1 [post_date] => 2017-09-14 09:17:42 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-14 13:17:42 [post_content] => Click the 'More Details' under the song to get context, see lyrics and hear the song. To clarify, by 'fresh' we do not mean new, but under-done or overlooked songs that are great for auditioning.Here are 51 fresh audition songs for altos:
1. Nobody's Chasing Me from 'Out of This World'
Range : F3-Bb4
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Frustrated, Comedic
MORE DETAILS2. Happy to Keep His Dinner Warm from 'How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying'
Range : C4-Eb5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Romantic, Comedic, Flirtatious
MORE DETAILS3. If He Really Knew Me from 'They're Playing Our Song'
Range : G3-B4
Style : Ballad
Mood : Romantic, Pivotal Moment
MORE DETAILS4. You’d Better Love Me from 'High Spirits'
Range : A3-C#5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Romantic, Sassy
MORE DETAILS5. Disneyland from 'Smile'
Range : G3-D5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Hopeful, Uplifting
MORE DETAILS6. Plant You Now, Dig You Later from 'Pal Joey'
Range : Bb3-D5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Conniving
MORE DETAILS7. You Don’t Tell Me from 'No Strings'
Range : Ab3-C5
Style : Midtempo Swing
Mood : Kiss-Off, Defiant, Empowering
MORE DETAILS8. Someone Woke Up from 'Do I Hear A Waltz?'
Range : A3-B4
Style : Uptempo
Mood : Excited, Fascinated
MORE DETAILS9. That Terrific Rainbow from 'Pal Joey'
Range : B3-Bb4
Style : Midtempo Swing (Golden Age)
Mood : Sassy, Seductive
MORE DETAILS10. How I Feel from 'The Me Nobody Knows'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Dramatic, Heartbreak
MORE DETAILS11. The Colors of My Life from 'Barnum'
Range : C4-Eb5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Introspective, Romantic
MORE DETAILS12. City Lights from 'The Act'
Range : G3-F5
Style : Uptempo Rag
Mood : Comedic, Sassy, Showstopper
MORE DETAILS13. What A Nice Idea from 'Two Gentlemen of Verona'
Range : A3-B4
Style : Midtempo (Soft Rock)
Mood : Jealous, Romantic
MORE DETAILS14. What Is A Woman from 'I Do! I Do!'
Range : G3-Db5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Dramatic, Nostalgic
MORE DETAILS15. Old Friend from 'I'm Getting My Act Together And Taking It On the Road'
Range : G3-Db5
Style : Ballad (Pop)
Mood : Romantic, Uplifting
MORE DETAILS16. The Music Still Plays On from 'A New Brain'
Range : F#3-G4
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Nostalgic, Motherly
MORE DETAILS17. Millwork from 'Working'
Range : A3-A4
Style : Ballad (Soft Rock)
Mood : Nostalgic, Emotional
MORE DETAILS18. If You Hadn’t But You Did from 'Two On the Aisle'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Uptempo
Mood : Comedic, Break-up, Showstopper
MORE DETAILS19. Lazy Afternoon from 'The Golden Apple'
Range : F3-C5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Seductive
MORE DETAILS20. Ladies from 'Destry Rides Again'
Range : G3-Bb4
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Sassy
MORE DETAILS21. How Can I Wait? from 'Paint Your Wagon'
Range : F3-C5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Infatuated
MORE DETAILS22. Goodbye My Love from 'Ragtime'
Range : F#3-Db5
Style : Ballad (Waltz)
Mood : Hopeful, Dramatic, Romantic
MORE DETAILS23. My Big Mistake from 'The Will Rogers Follies'
Range : F3-D5
Style : Uptempo Swing
Mood : Romantic, Light-hearted
MORE DETAILS24. I Wish I Could Forget You from 'Passion'
Range : A3-E5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Dark, Romantic, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS25. Change from 'A New Brain'
Range : F3-D5
Style : Uptempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Boisterous, Outgoing
MORE DETAILS26. No Time At All from 'Pippin'
Range : E3-A4
Style : Uptempo (Swing)
Mood : Carefree, 60s Pop-feel, Comedic
MORE DETAILS27. Our Kind of Love from 'The Beautiful Game'
Range : G3-D5
Style : Midtempo (Waltz)
Mood : Romantic, Inspiring
MORE DETAILS28. Why Do the Wrong People Travel? from 'Sail Away'
Range : C4-Eb5
Style : Midtempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Wise-cracking
MORE DETAILS29. Hold On from 'The Secret Garden'
Range : F3-B4
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Motherly, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS30. If He Walked Into My Life from 'Mame'
Range : Bb3-D5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Regretful, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS31. It’s a Helluva Way to Run a Love Affair from 'Plain and Fancy'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Uptempo Swing (Golden Age)
Mood : Comedic, Romantic
MORE DETAILS32. I Ain’t Down Yet from 'The Unsinkable Molly Brown'
Range : Bb3-F5
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age)
Mood : Empowering, Confident
MORE DETAILS33. Turn Back, O Man from 'Godspell'
Range : D3-D5
Style : Midtempo (Rock/Blues)
Mood : Husky, Seductive
MORE DETAILS34. Anyone Can Whistle from 'Anyone Can Whistle'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Romantic, Hopeful
MORE DETAILS35. Look to the Rainbow from 'Finian's Rainbow'
Range : Bb3-Eb5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Story-telling, Inspirational
MORE DETAILS36. How Are Things in Glocca Morra from 'Finian's Rainbow'
Range : A3-F5
Style : Ballad (Golden Age)
Mood : Folk tune-esque, Nostalgic
MORE DETAILS37. The Best In the World from 'A Day In Hollywood, A Night in the Ukraine'
Range : F3-D5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Nostalgic, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS38. Stop, Time from 'Big the Musical'
Range : G3-D5
Style : Ballad (Contemporary)
Mood : Motherly, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS39. I Just Want to Be a Star from 'Nunsense'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Showstopper, Comedic, Sassy
MORE DETAILS40. Kiss Her Now from 'Dear World'
Range : Ab3-E5
Style : Ballad
Mood : Romantic, Dramatic
MORE DETAILS41. It's A Business from 'Curtains'
Range : C3-Ab5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Comedic, Wise-cracking, Character number
MORE DETAILS42. Lucky from 'A Little Princess'
Range : G3-C5
Style : Midtempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Jealous, Villainous, Cantankerous
MORE DETAILS43. It's An Art from 'Working'
Range : A3-D5
Style : Uptempo (Waltz)
Mood : Proud, Empowering
MORE DETAILS44. The Cake I Had from 'Grey Gardens'
Range : F#3-C#5
Style : Midtempo (Swing)
Mood : Comedic, Regretful, Cantankerous
MORE DETAILS45. I'm Going Back from 'Bells Are Ringing'
Range : Bb3-D5
Style : Uptempo (Golden Age, Jazzy)
Mood : Empowering, Finale
MORE DETAILS46. Flaming Agnes from 'I Do! I Do!'
Range : D3-Db5
Style : Midtempo (Jazzy)
Mood : Sassy, Comedic, Confident
MORE DETAILS47. Kiss of the Spider Woman from 'Kiss of the Spider Woman'
Range : G#3-G#5
Style : Midtempo (Waltz)
Mood : Dark, Menacing, Villainous
MORE DETAILS48. Special from 'Avenue Q'
Range : F3-Db5
Style : Midtempo (Jazzy)
Mood : Sassy, Seductive, Tongue-in-Cheek
MORE DETAILS49. Teaching Third Grade from 'Ruthless'
Range : Eb3-B4
Style : Midtempo (Contemporary)
Mood : Comedic, Sarcastic
MORE DETAILS50. The Dark I Know Well from 'Spring Awakening'
Style: Midtempo (contemporary) Mood: Dramatic, Story-Telling51. Just Around The Corner from 'The Addams Family'
Style: Midtempo Mood: Dark comedy, Satirical, Awkwardly inspirationalYou Might Like: 15 Great Contemporary Roles For Altos
Have a good alto audition song to add to the list? Leave a comment below...
[post_title] => 51 Fresh Audition Songs For Altos [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 51-audition-songs-for-altos [to_ping] => [pinged] => https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/change/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/just-want-star/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/its-a-business/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/ladies/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/wrong-people-travel/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/kiss-her-now/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/im-going-back/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/kiss-of-the-spider-woman/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/if-he-walked-into-my-life/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/teaching-third-grade/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/stop-time/ https://theatrenerds.com/audition_songs/the-cake-i-had/ [post_modified] => 2018-10-17 01:12:09 [post_modified_gmt] => 2018-10-17 05:12:09 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11362 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 48 [filter] => raw ) [35] => WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 11358 [post_author] => 7 [post_date] => 2017-09-13 09:52:50 [post_date_gmt] => 2017-09-13 13:52:50 [post_content] => There’s no denying that technology and theatre have a complicated relationship. While some shows, such as “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Encounter,” have embraced social media, others have sworn against it. Let’s be real, no one wants to get Patti LuPoned during a show (yes, it’s a verb now). So, then, what role does technology and social media play in theatre, both in the audience and onstage? Once again, the answer to that question is complicated. However, social media and marketing expert Tony Howell thankfully took the time to speak with me on the matter and discuss how producers can begin to embrace technological advances while still maintaining the integrity and beauty of live theatre. “I think it has a place in certain pieces,” Howell said of social media. “I don't think it needs to take over, but I would like to see stories that include it because it’s part of the world we live in now.” Recently, social media has been brought to the stage, most notably in the 2017 Tony Award winner for Best Musical, “Dear Evan Hansen.” But how can the audience use social media without interrupting the performance? [caption id="attachment_11360" align="alignnone" width="768"] Ben Platt in 'Dear Evan Hansen'[/caption]
“What I would encourage in terms of best practices is that it’s totally great to take a picture of the procedium and playbill,” he said. “Another great thing is to leave a review. After you see something, review the piece yourself, go to their Facebook page and share your thoughts, especially when they’re positive.”
When it comes to producers’ and marketers’ use of social media, Howell said the most effective method to getting people to share their experiences of the show is to have a step and repeat in the lobby of the theatre. This way, everyone who comes to the show can take a picture and post it online.
Social media is undeniably a great tool to be used before or after a show. However, surfing social media and the internet during a performance has recently become far too regular. Rest assured, theatre fans, this isn’t just a Broadway problem, but a global one.
“I think we will see a global problem of attention spans and people disconnecting from the real world around them to engage with the virtual world around them, but I don’t think it’s limited to theatre,” Howell said. “We see our union and industry fighting against it, saying that live theatre needs to be live.”
However, Howell hopes that embracing social media within limits will actually bring great changes to the Great White Way.
“What I think will happen with Broadway and theatre, I hope, is that we’ll be able to share our art form with audiences and more people through digital with the expectation that if you want the premium live experience, you buy a ticket,” he said. “I would like to see more digital integration where we get to be a part of the show. Word-of-mouth marketing is the No. 1 form of marketing because it doesn’t cost you anything, and people trust their family and friends’ recommendations. I think producers are hurting themselves by not encouraging social media. I just think that we have to write the rules and teach etiquette.”
What about onstage? Could social media be incorporated more frequently into shows themselves, like “Hit List” from the hit NBC show “Smash?” (Yes, it’s a hit in my heart.)
Howell warns that it may remove people from the story, since taking a second look at their phone may cause audiences to then surf the web or check email. However, in the right context, with limitations, it could potentially work.
Aside from within the theatres themselves, Howell has also seen how social media has started to have an impact on casting decisions.
“I see it being involved in casting decisions, but I think people make the mistake of looking at 10,000 followers versus the actual engagement rate,” he said. “So someone with a hundred followers and a higher engagement could actually bring more results to the ticket process than someone with a bunch of spambots that they bought from Russia.”
Frankly, it’s 2017. Technology and social media are bound to start to find their place within theatre, whether onstage or offstage. While this does present some potential negatives to the experience of live theatre we’ve come to know and love, with the right rules and guidance, it could have a profound effect on the art form.
[post_title] => What Role Does Social Media Play In The Theatre?
[post_excerpt] =>
[post_status] => publish
[comment_status] => open
[ping_status] => open
[post_password] =>
[post_name] => role-social-media-play-theatre
[to_ping] =>
[pinged] =>
[post_modified] => 2017-09-13 17:51:26
[post_modified_gmt] => 2017-09-13 21:51:26
[post_content_filtered] =>
[post_parent] => 0
[guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=11358
[menu_order] => 0
[post_type] => post
[post_mime_type] =>
[comment_count] => 2
[filter] => raw
)
)
[post_count] => 36
[current_post] => -1
[before_loop] => 1
[in_the_loop] =>
[post] => WP_Post Object
(
[ID] => 26784
[post_author] => 639
[post_date] => 2017-11-23 12:35:04
[post_date_gmt] => 2017-11-23 17:35:04
[post_content] => The holidays are fast approaching, and this season is a great time to reflect on all the things we were thankful for over the past year. Luckily for theatre fans, it’s been a year full of many memorable moments and events in the theatre world.
Here are just a few things thespians were thankful for in 2017:
1. ‘The Lion King’ Is Still on Broadway After 20 Years
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_jxXI0UkSQ It was 20 years ago this year that “The Lion King” graced the stage. Since then, it has become one of the top-grossing shows on Broadway. Based on the beloved Disney film and featuring a score by Elton John and masterful costumes, this show took Broadway by storm. “The Lion King” has cemented a permanent place for Disney on Broadway, and there is no sign of the sun setting on Pride Rock anytime soon.2. Broadway Royalty Returning to the Stage
One major thing we were thankful for this year was seeing the return of Broadway royalty. From Bette Midler and Patti LuPone to Billy Porter returning to his Tony Award-winning role as Lola in “Kinky Boots,” this year saw the return of some major star power. It’s years like these we rejoice for the kings and queens of Broadway.
3. When This Happened
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Y8aUplM3I8 Speaking of Broadway royalty, Midler deserves her own spot on this list. Not only did this woman finally get the Tony she has always deserved, but she gave us an unforgettable speech to go with it. We are truly thankful for the unfiltered Divine Ms. M.4. ‘Moulin Rouge’ Is Coming to Broadway
via GIPHY It’s seemed inevitable that this movie-musical would eventually make its way to Broadway, and it finally got the green light and its own production team this year. Even among all the non-musical films hitting the stage this year, we don’t even have to question Baz Luhrmann's smash hit’s theatrical debut!5. The Music of Michael Friedman
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PIPtoo6k1o One of the more surprising losses in the theatre world this year was the death of songwriter Michael Friedman. Known for his works “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” and “The Fortress of Solitude,” this songwriter showed a ton of promise with his Off-Broadway work. He had multiple shows in the works at the time of his death, so we hope we have not heard the last of his work.6. We Had ‘Great Comet’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q12mfQ4PRLA One of the sadder things to happen on Broadway this year was the closing of “Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812.” After hearing the concept of this show, some people thought it could never work on Broadway. Not only did it work, but it gained a huge fan following, won multiple Tony Awards and gave us Dave Malloy. From the score to the immersive experience to the amazing cast, this show will truly be missed.7. A Long-Running Play
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOWO4gq-whg It was a great year for playwrights on Broadway, as many plays garnered a ton of buzz. With shows such as “Oslo” drawing in crowds and Laurie Metcalf taking home a Tony for “A Doll’s House, Part 2,” it was a very diverse year for plays on Broadway. A play that came a bit out of left field was “The Play That Goes Wrong.” This show not only outlasted all the heavily Tony-nominated plays of the season, but it’s become the longest-running play on Broadway. This hysterical show pays homage to anyone who has ever worked on a show and is laugh-out-loud funny. Here’s hoping it stays the longest-running play on Broadway!8. The Return of Movie Musicals
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEJd2RyGm8Q&t=2s Off the success of films such as “Beauty and the Beast” and “La La Land,” it’s no surprise there has been an increase in interest of movie musicals. Not only are we getting live-action Disney musical films and stage-to-screen musicals, but we’re once again getting original movie musicals. One of the most anticipated films of the year is “The Greatest Showman,” which features Broadway stars Hugh Jackman and Keala Settle. Pasek and Paul wrote the score, so there’s no way this movie can disappoint.9. From Stage to Computer Screen
Remember last year when it was a huge deal “She Loves Me” live-streamed online? This year, we got to see so many more shows from the cheapest seat possible: our couch. For some time now, there has been a debate of whether streaming shows ruins the theatrical experience. However, what these captures have done is make high-quality Broadway shows accessible to people all over the world. With a bunch of shows filmed just this past year, including “Falsettos” and “Present Laughter,” let’s hope this surge in streaming shows continues.
10. Ben Platt
It’s hard to pinpoint just one reason to be thankful for this amazing actor. This was truly his year, since he made “Dear Evan Hansen” one of the top-selling shows on Broadway, won his first Tony Award, guest-starred on “Will and Grace” and has an original album in the works. It’s tough that he’s leaving Broadway this month, but we’ll definitely be watching to see what this talented guy does next.
What are some of the things you were thankful for in the theatre world in 2017? Let us know in the comments below...
[post_title] => 10 Things Thespians Are Thankful For This Year [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => open [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => 10-things-thespians-thankful-year [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2017-11-23 12:35:04 [post_modified_gmt] => 2017-11-23 17:35:04 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://theatrenerds.com/?p=26784 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 7 [filter] => raw ) [comment_count] => 0 [current_comment] => -1 [found_posts] => 599 [max_num_pages] => 17 [max_num_comment_pages] => 0 [is_single] => [is_preview] => [is_page] => [is_archive] => 1 [is_date] => [is_year] => [is_month] => [is_day] => [is_time] => [is_author] => [is_category] => [is_tag] => [is_tax] => 1 [is_search] => [is_feed] => [is_comment_feed] => [is_trackback] => [is_home] => [is_privacy_policy] => [is_404] => [is_embed] => [is_paged] => 1 [is_admin] => [is_attachment] => [is_singular] => [is_robots] => [is_favicon] => [is_posts_page] => [is_post_type_archive] => [query_vars_hash:WP_Query:private] => ec3a0e6aef1559970c9c3065c4d89b00 [query_vars_changed:WP_Query:private] => 1 [thumbnails_cached] => [allow_query_attachment_by_filename:protected] => [stopwords:WP_Query:private] => [compat_fields:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => query_vars_hash [1] => query_vars_changed ) [compat_methods:WP_Query:private] => Array ( [0] => init_query_flags [1] => parse_tax_query ) [query_cache_key:WP_Query:private] => wp_query:581e8daef512334333d2805609b1c408:0.83813100 17774479060.33545300 1777447907 )Latest stories
-
-
-
-
-
320 Shares
Can You Bake This ‘Waitress’ Lyric Quiz To Perfection?
It’s easy as pie for a true fan!
-
-
20.9k Shares
The Hardest ‘Les Misérables’ Lyric Quiz Ever
-
-
243 Shares
9 Things That Drive A Creative Team Crazy
-
-
-
-
-
-
914 Shares
10 Things That Every Thespian Can Relate To
-
-
-
-
324 Shares
Vocal Audition Advice From 5 NYC Pros
-
1.3k Shares7 Comments
Quiz: How Many Of These Classic Musicals Do You Know?
We’re all obsessed with the newest slew of shows to hit the Broadway stage, but can you keep up with this Golden Age of musical theatre quiz?
-
-
901 Shares8 Comments
Quiz: Tell Us Your Favorite Things About Fall And We’ll Tell You Your Favorite Show Tune
It’s October so why not?
-
-
-
643 Shares
Which School of Rock Kid Are You?
-
-
-
-
-
1.7k Shares3 Comments
Top 16 Contemporary Act 1 Finales
-
-
-
3.8k Shares
Quiz: Which Delta Nu Are You?
-
853 Shares2 Comments
‘Waitress’ DIY Pie Pillows
-
Popular
Nerdy
LOL
OMG
Angry
LOVE
10.6k Shares48 Comments
51 Fresh Audition Songs For Altos
-
656 Shares2 Comments
What Role Does Social Media Play In The Theatre?
Insights with Tony Howell
Load More
Congratulations. You've reached the end of the internet.
