Mary Hamilton
We've just finished the middle. The middle of the rehearsal process (in my experience and speaking only for myself) can often be the most challenging. It's far enough from the beginning, which is exciting because everyone is game to start a new project and it's fun to meet new people, etc., etc. It's far off from the end, too, where it all becomes real and "Omigod, there's so much to DO."
But the middle . . . that's when attendance at rehearsals can be sporadic and the work can seem like . . . work.
We're through that now, and with weeks to go, we're on the home stretch. My dear friend and colleague Frank Hackett came to rehearsal last week and gave the show a gander. He gave us some excellent, detailed feedback which we'll use to rehearse and polish what we've got.
And what have we got? If you've been reading along, you'll know that we've been creating our own show with Buster Keaton as an inspiration. As might be expected, the show has taken on a life of its own, and though we've maintained the central theme of an optimistic chap overcoming adversity, it's become a little bit absurd as well. It's kind of like Buster Keaton and Samuel Beckett went to the pub and then dropped in on a room full of high school drama kids and asked if they wanted to join in on their theatre project. And then left.
We're in a really good place with the show's development. It's really starting to look like something. Now, we have to rehearse it like mad. Rehearsing comedy is serious business.
I'll keep you posted on how the home stretch goes. In the mean time, make plans to come and see it! The Optimist plays at the Key City Theatre November 26-28 at 7:30 pm. Tickets are $8 for students and seniors and $10 for general admission. Opening night features a catered reception by Green Door.