So, Harvey has begun. I have producers, a set builder, a set designer, a stage manager and an ASM. I even have dates for my auditions (Feb. 15 and 16, in Concord, NH). Anytime I begin to work with a new organization, I always get extra excited, because I have no clear expectations. I love that, because every show is an adventure, anyway! The newness of everything adds several new levels to the challenge. After all these years of working in theater, I need challenges.
Why Harvey? Let's start with the organization of the Community Players of Concord. This is their show. They selected it, then put out a call asking for Directors to apply for the job. I am coming into this as a Director for hire, but also to establish my bonafides with them for future consideration, as well. I always endeavor to give my very best; but making a good impression on people whom one respects, but doesn't know is very important to me. They, after all, are paying me to deliver a good show. And, goodness knows, they have a wonderful reputation. I have to live up to that.
My background, in all fairness, is as a film guy. before my love affair with the stage ever began, I was hooked on the cinema. Celluloid dreams led me to an appreciation for all performing arts. In my years as a student of movies, i got hooked on screwball comedies of the 30s and 40s: His Girl Friday, The Twentieth Century, Bringing Up Baby and, yes, Harvey. Scintillating banter between characters who somehow find themselves in the most improbable of situations is an absolute joy to behold.
I am equally interested in placing the comedy within the context of the times in which these stories take place. What, I wonder, is it about the post-depression that made these comedies so singularly precious? How is it that they have never been equaled for their quality in the years following their heyday? I plan to explore that in the coming months.
This, then, will be an exploration into the creative process of more than just one play's production. I will delve into the nature of comedy; discuss film and stagecraft (and, probably, video as well), and plan to reflect on the challenges of all of this.
Join me, please.
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