Friday, April 13, 2012

Commercial Take 1...in which a director learns a few lessons









Please find it in your hearts to consider this commercial an experiment, and know that the director takes total responsibility for the production values you are about to endure. In fact, many lessons were learned in the process. Wanna know what they are?





1. Just because someone knows a tiny bit about directing plays, does not mean that s/he can direct video.





2. People in the background of a shot do not disappear just because you want them to.





3. Fancy hand-held camera work may work for seasoned professionals, but does not look so artsy in a warehouse setting with everyone sitting in a straight line.





4. Characters in a straight line...not so good.





5. Never hand a friend a camera s/he has never used before and expect perfect results.





6. Be sure to thank cast over and over for...coming to the first and all rehearsals with a team spirit...for making every moment together an "our" experience...for sharing ownership of the skit with the director...for singing pretty, and looking silly.





7. Be sure to thank the crews...costumes, lights, sound, make-up, stage crew...all 200 volunteers who come together each year and selflessly throw themselves into this event knowing they will be facing sleep deprivation, and some high anxiety as the creative process evolves.





8. Be sure to thank patrons, advertisers, and everyone who fills a seat. Without you, our work would be meaningless and a lot less fun.

Potch on the Dupa Rehearsal










Here's a sneak peek at a little piece of the HAR musical. It's in three parts this year...."Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday Morning History Class," staring YOU as Miss Tizzy's students.



"Potch on the Dupa" is from Part II and features Lloyd Gosz on accordion, Chuck Allger and Laurie Magyar as the parents, and Emily Knier and Terry York as the kids. Connie Dorner plays piano.



Special thanks to Richie "Wenzel" Krueger and the "Happy Schnapps Combo" for letting us use and putz with one of their world famous polkas.



It's not too late to get your tickets...you want to see the finished product, right...all prettied up with lights, sound and set from Chris, Chad and Kevin, right? Be there. Miss Tizzy will be waiting! A potch on the dupa to yous, ya hey!



April 26, 27, 28, May 3, 4, 5.




Tickets available at Fox's Piggly Wiggly in Manitowoc and at Inman's Jewelers in Two Rivers.