Here it is three days after closing the show and I haven't written. In fact, it seems like a long time, so let's backtrack.
The show opened to rave reviews on November 4. We sold out the first weekend, so made the decision to extend the run by having one more performance on November 13. We sold out--or nearly sold out for the last four performances.
We had strike (dismantling the set and putting away all the props and furniture) following the performance on Sunday. Strike is often a sad experience, but this one was more so than usual. As I've mentioned before and in other places, I'm not sure why this show gripped me so deeply. I'm sure there are a number of reasons: the cast was very committed and really bonded well; the cast members are really nice people; the script is well-written; there are kids in it; it’s very funny; it has incredibly tender moments. Everything seemed to come together; to be integrated to the whole. I loved how well the set came together…thanks to a number of people who helped construct, paint, scout out just the right props. (Julian Stam pointed out that one of the super heroes wouldn’t have been in existence in 1959, and provided a few comic books that were of the right year!) Steve Worthington and Deb Sawyer created a great sound effects CD. And the audience laughed and cried and remembered.
I’m glad we had strike immediately following the last performance. If I had to come back to work on it the next day it would have been pretty difficult. Getting it over helped to shorten the grief. At the last performance both Hunter and Nate expressed how much they wished the experience could go on. These two young guys really stepped up and worked like pros; it was wonderful to see them grow in the process.
I had worked with Deb, Barbara, Ryan and Sophie before on different productions and it was really satisfying to see them in roles that are different than others they’ve inhabited. It was great getting to know Thomas and see this young high schooler grow and learn. Each cast member brought a wonderful sense of humor and cooperative spirit to the experience. Linda was a very patient and helpful assistant and we’re working on developing this role for future productions.
The wonder of live theatre. The performances end; but what a glorious journey it has been.
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