Backstage Crew

Preparations

For the performance, I got to work with a small team of other volunteers who signed up to help in creating the props and backgrounds. While the play was happening from February 6 to 9, we had been working on all the designs starting in early January. When we first met up, we discussed what types of items were needed for the play, and what backgrounds needed to be painted. From there, we divided into groups based on who was painting which of the 3 backgrounds. Even though we did help each other out, we kept the same groups so the space wouldn’t be overcrowded. Plus, a select few from the group went and purchased the few props we needed that wasn’t in storage already. Soon enough, our preparation for the play – which was all done outside of class, and on agreed-upon dates – was completed.

The Performance

As the time came closer to the performance, we started working with the actors during their dress rehearsals. Our roles then were to know where the backgrounds were to be placed, and where to place the props on stage before the acts started so the actors were well prepared. We did stay for dress rehearsals, so that the actors not only had an audience to perform in front of, but so we could make adjustments when needed to the props. During the performances, we did have to show up ahead of time, and wearing black clothes – or at least dark colours – to set everything up, and give the audience their pamphlets. Similar to the dress rehearsals, we set up everything for the first act, and the second one as well during intermission. For the rest of the performance, we were backstage to ensure that everything was going to plan, and helping the actors and actresses when needed. After the last performance, we then took everything down and packed the props in case they were needed for a future performance.

Click here to find out more: https://www.trentu.ca/agrs/experience/classics-drama-group/performances