It’s the final countdown. We open in just a few days. In a way, it’s hard to believe. Time has passed so fast! It seems like just yesterday we were sitting down and reading through the script in English and trying to grok what it would be like to perform in Klingon and as a Klingon. Yet now we’re here diving bat’leth first into tech week and we are so ready.
I’ve been in a few shows where this wasn’t the case. Tech week was this terrifying prospect that guaranteed near sleepless nights and panicky rehearsals. Things always turned out okay but sometimes the journey to “okay” was a stressful one.
It has been quite the opposite with this show, something I attribute wholly to the people involved in the production. There is a powerful energy and sense of camaraderie, a shared bond as we work together to prepare for opening night.
Returning cast members are always there to help. Whether it’s with pronunciation or with the various quirks and hiccups that come with the complicated makeup process and costume pieces someone is always ready to jump to your aid. Each has also acted as a mentor in their own way, guiding the many new cast members through each rehearsal. In turn, new cast members have bonded over the new experiences to be had and the challenges of learning and performing in Klingon. Through all this, a great level of trust and security has developed and I know I can depend any and all of my fellow cast members on our off stage.
Most importantly, the same level of trust and respect has been established between those important folks that don’t get to play around on stage. Eric Van Tassell (Director), Amy Hopkins (Stage Manager), Zach Livingston (Fight Choreographer), and Christopher Kidder-Mostrom (Artistic Director) have all been approachable leaders, team builders, and fountains of knowledge.
Not only have we built a great show that we’re excited to share over the next month, we’ve built a strong team and stronger friendships. It’s been a joy working alongside each member of the Klingon Christmas Carol team and I can’t wait for you to see it on stage.
Just get your tickets soon, because they’re selling fast!