Animal Farm Evaluation

Animal Farm Show Write Up

De-rig/ Fit up-

Throughout the fit-up period, all of the crew helped out building and rigging for the different technical departments. We only had one week to build the set and ensure all the technical departments were ready for plotting on Friday. We de-rigged the lighting that was left up from the last external show. The de-rig process took us half a day as there was only 2 of us, if all the crew was there we would have had it done way before dinner time.

Later on, in the week, we were given a lighting plan by Andy (lighting designer) which we had to rig. This included lanterns such as cantatas, Parcans, Source Four Profiles, Moving Lights. To rig these lanterns, we used equipment such as Tallescope and Zarges to get to the rig. We then used pullies attached on to a sling to send a light up to the crew member at height. Whilst doing this we used all of the correct PPE such as Hardhats, Steel top caps and gloves.

Set

On the second day, we started to build the set. We took 12 pieces of lite deck and measured each side of them. We then chopped some wood to the correct size and screwed it down to the wood to give the illusion that there were wooden pallets. When in fact they were just lite deck. There were many reasons for this including the fact that wooden pallets are very expensive. Plus, by using lite deck there was a lot more sturdiness in the set, making it a lot safer for the cast.

We created the Farmhouse scene by folding back half the seats in A-Bay. We then used the top of the bay to build the farmhouse set. We used some plywood sheets, timber blocks and corrugated plastic to create the effect that it was Mr Jones Farm house. Because the farmhouse wasn’t part of the main set, it created a different level for the actors to use, which allowed them to perform using all the different acting techniques they have learnt in class. 

Part of the set was the design that was on the floor. Miranda found this photo on the floor and thought it would be nice to paint it onto the floor. Therefore, we projected it on to the floor, chalked around the words and then painted the words white. The design was all set around Animal Farm and the different themes of the show. 

Windmill

During the fit up for Animal Farm, we came across the problem of having to build a windmill. Our problem was that we had to build a device that would allow the cast to build the windmill on stage, to then make it explode and then for it to be rebuilt again. Obviously, our prime concern was the safety of all the cast and audience members, so we had to take this task very seriously.

After coming up with a plan we had to go over to the drama studio and present our plan to the cast. This included us explaining to the cast how important their safety is throughout the windmill building. The plan involves creating a simple frame that the cardboard boxes go in to make the shape of a windmill. We explained that the boxes also had to go in at a certain orientation to achieve the effect we were looking for.

Rehearsals

During rehearsals, as the Deputy Stage Manager, you sit with the director, prompting lines for the actors and taking blocking notes. Attending rehearsals is vital as before tech week starts, you know how’s the show runs. This allows you to easily call the show during tech rehearsals/ performances. Also, by attending rehearsals you are assisting the director by helping them with anything they need.

Tech/Performance Week-

For the production of Animal Farm, my main role was a DSM (Deputy Stage Manager). This included attending rehearsals, production meetings, fit up, Tech rehearsals and performances. The role of DSM is such an important role for a production as you are the person who connects the cast and the crew together. You are the first point of call for anyone who’s has a problem/query about the show. 

Through tech week we worked alongside the director to create all the technical elements through the show. This included the different lighting and sound cues. We also choreograph how the boxes would be placed in the windmill frame, so when they were knocked over we got the full effect.

During tech week we ensure that all the cast know exactly what’s going to happen during the show. This includes where their props will be, what entrances they will use to enter and exit and timings of the show. To summarise the tech week it was a really busy week but together we worked really well and achieved our target. In the amount of time we had, we created an excellent technical performance alongside with the director. 

Strengths 

During my time at Oldham College studying Technical Theater I have discovered many of my strengths, these include…

Teamwork

Throughout my time working with peers I have used teamwork skills. This ranges from in class when I work in a pair to create a PowerPoint to when we are creating shows and are working as one big unit. My role as DSM also includes communicating very closely with the cast members, who are on another course studying Performing Arts. Therefore, I have to use my teamwork skills to connect with the cast to allow for the bridge between cast and crew I create.

Personally, I see teamwork as one of the most important qualities of a stage manager. You have to be able to work as a team and to ensure that everything you do benefits someone else in the group.

Communication

Communication is also a key element to becoming a good stage manager. It is vital that a stage manager has clear communication because they are the person that connects all the different technical departments to each other. They also have to have clear communication with the cast, so they know exactly what is happening all the time.

Organisation

In addition, you need to have good organisation skills. It is vital that a stage manager is organised, otherwise, things are bound to go wrong. You must be able to manage your time correctly as you have many responsibilities you must carry out.

Respect

Furthermore, you must have respect as a stage manager. Over your time you will meet so many people from cast, crew, directors, producers, front of house staff and visitors. You must ensure that you treat everyone with respect and remember the golden rule “Treat others as you wish to be treated yourself”.

  

Collaboration

Part of teamwork includes collaboration, this is where you allow everyone to have their own opinion and input to a task. You must ensure that everyone understands what their role is and how to use it contribute to the team’s success. You must remember that each member of the team’s part in the project is equally as valid.

Areas for improvement

Alongside discovering my strengths over the past 2 years, I have also discovered my areas for improvement these include…

Problem Solving 

As a stage manager you must have problem-solving skills, as you will come across a lot of different obstacles this could range from a cast member getting injured 10 minutes before the show to a rehearsal room being double booked. You must be on your toes and ready to solve any problem that comes your way. Sometimes I struggle with problems solving, therefore I see it as one of my areas for improvement. To get around this problem I have set myself an action plan. I have decided I will set myself problems during my continued education in stage management at university. I will face these challenges with my full effort as this will assist me in improving my problem-solving skills.

Creativity 

During my time at Oldham College studying Technical Theater I have discovered that at times I lack in creativity skills. I feel as I don’t have the same amount of creativity as some of my peers. I see this as another one of my areas for improvement. Therefore, I have set myself an action plan. I have decided I will try and get involved with the creative side of theatre such as set design or props during my continued education in stage management at university. I will face creativity challenges with my full effort as this will assist me in improving my creativity skills.

Courage

During my time on the course, I feel like I’ve lacked in courage. I feel like I haven’t taken enough risks during our college shows and I should off as any mistakes were made in college before I move onto university. I see this as another one of my areas for improvement. Therefore, I have set myself an action plan. I have decided I will take more risk during my continued education in stage management at university. I will take as many risks as possible as this will assist me in improving my courage.

Conclusion

In the past 2 years, I have discovered who I am as a person. I have decided that stage management is for me and it’s what I see myself doing in the future. I have found out how to work with a team who are so unique and have many amazing qualities. I have learnt the basics from switching on a lighting and sound desk all the way to being “on the book” for a full blown out 2-hour show. I have worked with all different kind of people including cast members who are loud and crazy to technicians who are shy and sensible. I wouldn’t change this for the world!

In conclusion, I thought Animal Farm was an excellent show both from the cast and the crew, a lot of hours were spent on making it a good show and they really paid off. I am so honoured to be part of the technical team that brought the show to life.