The technical theater crew collaboratively work behind the scenes of the shows performed at Holy Cross. They come together in the end to see their hard work paid off as the cast put on the production of “The Addams Family” on March 15, 16, and 17.
The many different departments on the crew side of tech theater all contribute to make the show a whole. With the diversity of thoughts and approaches, the collaborative process is enhanced with every production. A joint effort is made by the builders, artists, and designers to make what you see on stage. Ranging from the set pieces, costumes, lights, and sound—it is all by the students.
“Everything on that set is built by us, it’s not pre-made,” the head of build and paint and head of sound Elsa Raedeke said.
Whether it be working backstage on set changes, or floating to help different departments, the stage management team’s contributions can be used anywhere. Above all, tech theater allows all people passionate about their craft and dedicated to work. The long hours, technical and physical challenges, and tight deadlines are common to see throughout the rehearsal process, but the end result of seeing the production come together makes it all worthwhile. The deck stage manager is the one in charge backstage.
“We help direct rehearsals; we take notes; and during the shows, we help with the scene changes behind the stage and mostly facilitating and organizing all the different processes that happen to make sure everything runs smoothly,” deck stage manager Alexis Ann Braswell commented.
Those who have a special skill of problem-solving or thinking outside the box produce great work in the fast-paced environment of tech theater. Regardless of personality type, everybody brings a key role to help rehearsals and the show run smoothly. This diversity in departments allows for opportunities for all individuals with all different skill sets, interests, and talents to add to the shows.
“We really rely on student leadership in every department” producer and technical director Dale Placek said. “We have designers; we have painters; we have builders; we have fashion designers. But then we also have people who are helping with program bios and artists who are doing posters and t-shirts.”
Each individual takes their personal skills and knowledge to their department to bring everything to life. Every student learns to work together in order to have effective communication and teamwork. From the biggest set pieces to the smallest props, all things on stage are meticulously picked and built to allow everyone to align their creative visions with the aesthetic and narrative of the show.
“In the world of tech theater, there’s a spot for any type of person, personality or interest,” Placek affirmed.
