As well as welcoming the acclaimed drama ‘Blackbird‘ to our Lauriston Studio theatre (opening Thursday 19th Sept), the work at the Garrick continues in earnest.
Mike Harding’s ‘Fur Coat and No Knickers‘ starts it’s last week of rehearsal before opening next Monday (25th Sept), while at the same time, the set for the show starts construction on stage tonight (Monday).
As many may already know, each set is initially built and painted in our own staffed workshop before construction begins on stage during the ‘Build Week’ – where our loyal team of volunteers work hard each evening to create the set you finally see on opening night. The bulk of this work (including taking down the previous show) usually takes about 2 or 3 evenings, with the final ‘dressing’ of the set might take another two nights – with additional tweeks and fine tuning right up to dress rehearsals. One or two of a very loyal members also work during the day’s on some essential parts of the sets as well.
Our stage crew and Props Department are of all ages and skills, all volunteers and either elect to do one evening or as many as they can (or want), during the week – to get the set finished. Under the supervision of our Stage Director and the Stage Manager, no set is the same, and each offers different challenges with some also requiring crewing during each performance, for flying. scene changes etc (depending on the complexity of each show).
The Garrick Society puts on 12 individual shows per year, and if you are interest in joining to help on stage, and you think you can spare even just 12 evenings – spread throughout the year, we would love to hear from you. Eventhough it’s sometimes hard work, (though we can find work for any ability), it’s usually always fun and there can be many laughs and jokes during the evening’s activities. Some, if they can, obviously do more than one night on a build week, but we are very flexible and ANY help is very appreciated. Many make new friends in the theatre, and have time, sometimes, for a drink in the bar at the end of the evening.
If you think you might be interested, contact us here, or at the theatre, or e-mail Phil, our very hard working Stage Director, we would love to hear from you.
Try this link, Getting Involved for even more information and links to other departments, or contact Phil Gleave at the theatre or e-mail stage@altrinchamgarrick.co.uk
Many members, reading this, already do a lot of work behind the scenes, as well as acting, so when you next come to the Playhouse, most of the staff you see, working Front of House, selling programmes, taking tickets, serving in the Kiosk, the Bar and the Coffee’s are dedicated members, why not introduce yourselves – and find out more and how you could help the theatre to play your part. If you are a regular member, and you have the time… if you are in the Bar – try an lend a hand if someone looks like they need the help – it’s always appreciated (I know many help like this when they can already!).
The Garrick is a vibrant place, always something happening on and off stage – so come and get involved, so when next time you are sat in the audience you could be watching something you’ve helped to make a success!
