1) The production team has had to adapt to a bigger stage and bigger sets in the Clayes. How has the process compared to Old Town so far? What have been the biggest benefits/challenges?
– It has been a massive learning curve; navigating not only a larger physical space, but also a brand-new space that we aren’t able to utilize institutional knowledge of previous productions to help solve issues. In Old Town, we had the benefit of over a decade of productions to help inform capabilities, overcome challenges, and avoid some missteps. In the Clayes, we have a beautiful space that we are still learning how to use and what does and doesn’t work in real time. A benefit of being in the Clayes is starting from scratch; a new facility means that we are able to be intentional with how we install and document changes we make so that Cygnet can have a log of adjustments that needed to be made to help build a strong foundation for the future.
2) This is the first time Cygnet has been able to have two shows running simultaneously. What was that process like in terms of planning/building the sets/striking shows/etc.?
– I think it caught us all by surprise when we realized how quick the turnaround from Follies into Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike was. We have always had to coordinate between each other’s departments, but with two shows happening simultaneously our work and communication naturally had to double. We all quickly learned how to jump from project to project, and how to plan out projects even further in advance than we have been. For example, we struck Follies, loaded in A Christmas Carol, struck Vanya, and loaded in Magical Holiday all within 5 weeks. For me personally, I have gone from mapping out the next couple of months to working on scheduling the next six months just to stay on top of everything before it comes up.
3) What is your favorite part about working at Cygnet and/or being in The Joan officially?
– I think our team is my favorite part of working here. Knowing that we have some of the hardest working people I have been lucky enough to work with inspires me daily. The food options around Liberty Station are a close second.
4) What show are you most looking forward to in the remainder of this season and why?
– There are quite a few, but I think The SpongeBob Musical will be a lot of fun for everyone. I grew up watching the cartoon religiously and doing a big, silly musical about it will be a fun challenge.