Some folks here may know that I work in theater/education. I spend most of the year in schools (high school and middle school) music directing theatre productions. That, along with doing a similar sort of thing for some theatre camps and community theatre companies has kept me kind of afloat for the past few years.
Well, this summer I got offered a job music directing at one of the few Equity houses in the area (For those who don’t know, Equity is the actors’ union). I’ve never worked an equity show before. So, basically, this is my first show ever where not only am I getting paid, but so is everyone else working on the show; actors, stage manager, director, designers, builders, everyone.
It has been incredible so far. We began rehearsals on Monday June 1st, and our show opens on Tuesday the 16th with one day off during those two weeks. I’m working from 1-9:30 in rehearsal (with a 1.5 hour dinner break), plus production meetings, orchestra rehearsals, and other non-rehearsal work.
The actors and everyone are very talented, but I’m finding the biggest difference (and I love it) between these professionals and the hobbyists I’m used to working with is not talent but dedication and professionalism. These folks are being paid to rehearse, and their attitudes during rehearsal and dedication to getting things down is great. They’re still a lot of fun, but when it’s time to work, everyone is working.
Anyway, I’m just having a total ball. I’m really hoping I can turn this into a stepping-stone for more work in the future, since music directing is pretty much my chosen profession.
This is my first step into the truly professional world, and all I can say is squee!
Congrats! I’m a Broadway/Off-Broadway MD/Pianist, and I know we have a few more on the boards as well. Always nice to see another one added to the list. Knock out a great show, and have fun!
There’s a movie with Ann Margret, but I don’t think it’s very good. The show is basically a tribute/parody of Busby Berkeley-style productions (42nd Street; think huge, lavish production numbers with a zillion dancers) in which everything is done in that same lavish style, but with only six cast members and an orchestra of two pianos and percussion. It’s a very funny and very cute show.
Awesome! Most awesome! I’ve played in a few Equity shows. It IS nice to play in shows where everyone is serious about what they’re doing. I’m looking for more shows to perform in.
Congratulations! Yes, I know Equity is most certainly a “big deal”!
Be careful about doing non-Equity after this one and be sure to get those waivers - they can get pissy if they see you doing other stuff once you are in Equity.
This will be a great foot in the door for other opportunities - granted, there is still heavy duty competition, but you have reached the next level! Big congrats!
BTW, I have a friend who lives in Burlington and I think he would love to see the show - will email him and tell him to go check it out!
