Last Day in "The Room"

"The Room" refers to the rehearsal room, where we've spent the last few weeks. We had a three hour session of notes today and tomorrow we will be on the stage for five hours to get our bearings, space and make sure that everything we put together in "The Room" will work in the confines of the stage space.

The move to stage is always a bit disorienting. In "The Room," stairs and levels are designated by brightly colored tape on the floor and walls are designated by music stands (the labyrinth I mentioned in an earlier post). Once we're on the actual set, however, people will be singing from different levels, climbing up stairs they've never actually seen before, and singing on furniture that hasn't existed for them until that day. It's somewhat like moving into a new house. Your daily activities still happen at the same time and with the same motive, it's just that your bathroom is in a different place and your silverware is in a different drawer.

It's actually been a stressful week but for reasons that have nothing to do with staging. It, for some reason, seems to be in the stars right now that people must deal with tragedy and family issues and so the stress of this is floating in the air. We will pass through it I am certain, but last night I slept for twelve straight hours for no other reason than I was overstressed. I am too open to other people's anxieties.

Tonight was "Opera Insight," a radio series that is taped in front of a live audience in the Grand Lobby of the Harrison Opera House. I put on some nice clothes (for a change) and went out to support the singers and director who were speaking about the opera and its particular challenges and joys. I think these events are always difficult for those in the spotlight. Talking about art and performance to people who know nothing about your side of the coin is a very hard job and can wear you down. Our cast and team did a great job and even garnered several laughs throughout the evening, and we all got a drink and a chat with each other in the end.

Virginia is cold right now. It's supposed to be below freezing tonight (and I even heard wind that it might snow). I kind of like the cold as it gives me a chance to wear my orange winter coat. (tee-hee)

The picture? A Supernumerary rehearsal in "The Room." Next stop is the tech table...