PTT Program 5 Day 7 Video 2

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Questions and Answers

What defines a long run show in musical theater?

Shows that have run for more than 5 years (correct)

Shows that feature the same cast for its entire duration

Shows that have been running for over 3 years

Shows that are still in rehearsal for more than a year

What is a key responsibility of a stage manager for a long run show?

To direct the show every evening

To oversee the replacement actors' integration (correct)

To write new music for the show

To create the entire piece from scratch

Which of the following roles is typically NOT involved in the rehearsal process for replacement actors?

Resident critics (correct)

Stage manager

Musical director

Dance captains

When replacing in a long run show, what is the initial focus of rehearsals for the new actor?

Learning their music and the show’s staging Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception among replacement actors in long run shows?

The entire cast will join them for initial rehearsals Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the show is a stage manager NOT typically responsible for during a long run?

Training the original cast members Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a long run show, what does 'working within the confines of what has been established' imply for a replacement actor?

They must adapt their performance to fit the existing show Signup and view all the answers

What is typically included in the first steps of the rehearsal process for a replacement actor?

Introduction to character ideas and the overall shape of the show Signup and view all the answers

What type of rehearsal primarily involves only new actors in costume?

New actor rehearsal Signup and view all the answers

What is typically missing from the first performance for new actors if it is a musical?

Orchestra Signup and view all the answers

How long can the rehearsal process for new actors take?

4 weeks or more Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main responsibilities of the stage manager during this process?

To nurture new performers Signup and view all the answers

What must ensemble members learn in addition to their main roles?

Understudy assignments Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge for performers in a long run show?

Maintaining energy and freshness in performances Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of live theater influences each performance significantly?

Audience reactions Signup and view all the answers

What common activity do cast members engage in before each performance?

Making nightly changes Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a stage manager in terms of perspective?

To see the overall production and how all elements fit together Signup and view all the answers

According to the described approach, how should stage managers handle conflicts during a performance?

By recognizing that conflicts are rarely about them personally Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'duck analogy' emphasize for stage managers?

The ability to let go of negative feelings and not dwell on issues Signup and view all the answers

How important is collaboration for stage managers according to the content?

It is crucial for effective leadership and decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What should stage managers avoid doing when making knee-jerk decisions?

Allowing their emotions to influence their reactions Signup and view all the answers

What can help stage managers see situations from all angles?

Maintaining an open dialogue with the stage management team Signup and view all the answers

How can a stage manager improve their decision-making over time?

By post morteming situations to learn from reactions and decisions Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a good leader in the context of stage management?

Being receptive to feedback and asking for input Signup and view all the answers

What should always be the primary concern when making decisions related to a show?

Ensuring the safety of individuals involved Signup and view all the answers

When is a 'knee jerk decision' typically necessary during a show?

When the show is performing live Signup and view all the answers

What factor can lead to potential safety issues during a show?

Repetition leading to boredom Signup and view all the answers

What must you do if an injury occurs during a performance?

Immediately assess the situation and ensure safety Signup and view all the answers

How should decisions be made concerning underperformance or absences of cast members?

For the best interest of the show, without personal biases Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary responsibilities when running day to day operations of a show?

Balancing multiple responsibilities including communication and scheduling Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to be alert and use knowledge during a show?

To prepare for potential situations that could arise Signup and view all the answers

What is a common challenge faced during the running of a show that can lead to errors?

Boredom from repetition among crew Signup and view all the answers

What does standard practice involve when blocking a performance?

Staging off a number line with equal distances on both sides Signup and view all the answers

Why is the role of the SM and dance captains important during rehearsals?

To stand in for all characters and partners in the ensemble Signup and view all the answers

What is a put-in rehearsal?

A rehearsal incorporating all technical elements for the show Signup and view all the answers

What are quick change rehearsals discussed for?

Managing wardrobe changes that need to be done quickly Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of understudy rehearsals?

To prepare understudies for potential performances in lieu of principal actors Signup and view all the answers

What typically happens a few days before opening night?

A rehearsal called a put-in takes place including all technical aspects Signup and view all the answers

What is likely to happen during costume and hair wig fittings?

All pieces will be prepared for opening night Signup and view all the answers

What can complicate the rehearsal process for newcomers?

The complexity of technical elements being added Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Long-Running Shows

Long-run shows refer to productions lasting over 5 years, including iconic musicals like Les Mis, Phantom, Chicago, Lion King, Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia, and Wicked.
Phantom of the Opera notably holds a record of over 25 years of continuous performances.

Role of the Stage Manager

Stage managers oversee the daily operations of a show, particularly significant in long-running productions due to frequent actor replacements.
Replacement actors require thorough rehearsals to integrate into the established production seamlessly.
The primary goal is to maintain the quality and freshness of the performance similar to opening night.

Rehearsal Process for Replacement Actors

Rehearsals often involve learning music first, followed by character ideas and staging with creative team members, including musical directors and dance captains.
Unlike educational theater, the rehearsal process for long-running shows is structured, focusing on integrating into a pre-existing framework rather than collaboratively creating a piece.

Learning and Technical Aspects

Replacement actors learn staging through a blocking system based on a number line along the stage.
Important landmarks for staging, like automation tracks and set pieces, help guide movement on stage.
Costume and makeup fittings are scheduled alongside rehearsals to prepare for the production.

Technical and Understudy Rehearsals

Technical rehearsals incorporate all special effects relevant to the production, including flying scenes and quick changes.
Understudy rehearsals occur regularly to ensure backups are prepared for principal roles when needed.

Challenges of Performance

Actors must keep performances fresh despite repeated shows, often needing to adapt to audience reactions.
Daily operations face challenges like absenteeism due to sickness, vacation, or injuries, requiring quick decision-making by the stage management team.

Decision-Making and Safety

Stage managers must prioritize the well-being of the cast and crew, handling emergencies efficiently while ensuring everyone’s safety.
Quick decisions may be necessary during performances, demanding attentiveness to evolving situations, like technical failures or health emergencies.

Balance Between Structure and Creativity

Replacement actors must find ways to express their artistic identity within the established direction of the show.
Good leadership relies on open communication and collaboration within the production team to address and resolve conflicts holistically.

Emotional Management and Conflict Resolution

Stage managers learn to detach from personal emotions to maintain professionalism, viewing conflicts as part of their role rather than personal attacks.
The "duck analogy" emphasizes resilience and the ability to let difficulties roll off without internalizing them.

Big Picture Thinking

Understanding how various components of a production fit together is crucial for stage managers to prioritize tasks effectively.
Continuous evaluation of situations from multiple perspectives fosters better decision-making and strengthens teamwork within the production environment.

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Description

Test your knowledge on the iconic long-running shows of musical theater, such as Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, and Wicked. Explore the unique challenges and responsibilities faced by stage managers in maintaining these successful productions over the years.