Behind The Scenes of Into the Woods

Behind The Scenes of Into the Woods

Aspen Mora

Many in the Manville community have possibly heard of the newest school play happening from April 19th to the 21st, but many don’t know what goes on behind the curtains. Stage Crew is a major part of any stage production, and without it, they wouldn’t have many of the amazing plays/musicals people enjoy. Stage Crew held a meeting on February 1st to establish who wanted to do what jobs. There are many roles that go into production, including clothing, lights, sets, makeup, music, and so much more. The Into the Woods stage crew is no different, and they have been hard at work to bring Manville the best performance possible. 

On March 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th, there will be meetings to plan, rehearse, and prepare for the upcoming musical for the stage crew. Production and assistant stage managers are the most important in any stage crew. Production stage managers provide practical and organizational support for directors, actors, designers, stage crew, and technicians. They also often act as the right hand to the director, oversee sets, props, lights, and sound, and call all technical cues during performances. Assistant stage managers help the production stage managers with all of their responsibilities. They attend production meetings, run rehearsals, and ensure the smooth running of a production. There’s also the “run crew;” they run set changes, prop handoffs, and onstage “magic,” which is especially helpful during a fairytale-like performance like Into the Woods. Fly rail operators are the people who pull the ropes, literally. They pull open and close the curtains, and use the ropes as need be. Light operators are responsible for the lighting during a show, spotlights, overhead lights, you name it. 

There are countless other people on the stage crew, such as sound operators, wardrobe directors, choreographers, composers, etc., that are all important to a smooth play/musical performance. The entire drama club hopes the Manville community comes out to see Into the Woods from April 19th to the 21st.