By: Maggie Sharp
The shows produced at Western can attribute a lot of their success and excellence to the behind-the-scenes crews that work on production.
Behind-the-scenes of production are light crews, prop managers, sound technicians, directors, producers and designers. The responsibilities placed on the student tech crew is enormous but Assistant Professor of Theatre and former technical director Jeff Stover believes they are capable.
“They show initiative, they’re really smart and have a good sense of humor,” Stover said. “We follow as much as we can a professional pedagogy, the way the students interact here is the same way they would act in a professional environment.”
Ben Smith, an actor and student on set for the production of Blithe Spirit said shows wouldn’t function without the complete cooperation of all those involved.
Smith has worked as a sound designer and for a set change crew. He often has to be prepared to deal with microphone malfunctions during the show and other technical difficulties.
Lindsay Mosher has experience in shows as an assistant stage manager, props manager and lighting crew member. Mosher enjoyed working as a props manager because she could search the loft and shop for props that would be best for the show.
Another student involved with Blithe Spirit was actor and co-set designer Elizabeth Adams. Adams has been a stage manager, assistant costume designer and an actor.
“Co- set designer means that instead of class you get to do practical work,” Adams said. “You read the script, do research and make the executive decisions. What is the color palette going to be based off mood and tone, finding furniture and props and everything else to make it happen.”
Communication is key to all technical groups working effectively together. This also extends to actors and the box office.
“Communication is key in everything, especially theatre,” Adams said. “It’s all about knowing exactly what you want, and the sooner people communicate better, things can be achieved faster.”
Overall, the Western theatre program functions not only a team, but as a family.
“We’re a family, even with all the dysfunction that comes with being a family, ” Stover said. “These kids are my kids, and it’s great to them grow, learn and blossom.”
As a family, the students at Western make the productions so much more than just a show. They make it a success.
