We’ve got another Musketeers throwback interview for you this #FrontRowFriday, this time with stage manager Kerstin F. Learn more about what a stage manager does throughout the rehearsal and show process, her thoughts on this new production, and more!
What was your position on the last production of The Three Musketeers?
Kerstin: It was my first Encore show on crew at age 12.
Encore: What’s your position on this production?
Kerstin: I’m proud to serve as the Stage Manager on this production of The Three Musketeers.
Encore: What do you remember from the first production?
Kerstin: My first time building in the scene shop! I learned to use power tools, paint sets, and apply lots of glitter! I just remember there being glitters everywhere.
Encore: How is stage managing different from other positions you’ve had on Encore shows?
Kerstin: Good question! I take notes throughout the rehearsal process to keep all of the production staff fully updated on decisions and the support needed [lights, props, etc.] to get the show ready. I make sure that everyone is present and ready for their cues. During the run of the show, I call all of the cues that bring the show together – lights, sound, flies, and set changes.
Encore: What does a typical rehearsal look like for you?
Kerstin: I show up early and set up the room. As I already said I take lots of notes, including blocking notes which are the record of where every actor is placed in the scene and what they should be doing. I always follow the rehearsal closely and have the script handy, ready to prompt an actor that needs my help with lines or stage direction. I also play warmup games and read for absent actors. And, at the end, I return the room to order and ensure that every actor has been picked up safely.
Encore: How is it working with a director as a stage manager?
Kerstin: I love working with Jim Clancy! I appreciate how intentional he is about the history and character development in this show. Being up close with his creative process has been a real treat.
Encore: What stands out about this rehearsal/production process compared to the first?
Kerstin: It was my first show so really didn’t understand much about what happened for the creative process for the first go ‘round. It’s been really fun doing it again and understanding so much more!
Encore: Has your perspective on The Three Musketeers changed at all? How?
Kerstin: The script is even funnier now that I can see cast re-interpret the same story and add their own talent to every part.
Major thanks to Kerstin for taking time out of a busy school/production week to share her reflections with readers of The Front Row. Come witness the magic that this stage manager facilitates during this production, now playing its final weekend!
Remaining Performance Dates and Showtimes:
Friday, March 6, 2020 at 7:30pm
Saturday, March 7, 2020 at 11am and 3pm
Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 3pm
Photos by Caitlyn Barron and Cindy Kane Photography.
Graphic design by Aileen Pangan Christian and Aimee Pangan.
Blog contribution by 2019/2020 Production Apprentice Kyla McLaughlin.
Edited by Shannon McCarthy.