Joseph, Joseph, is it really you?

Ok, I've promoted it much already on myspace, but I'm pushing even harder now: "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" this weekend at Bishop DuBourg High School. Tonight and tomorrow at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are just $10 for adults.

I had the pleasure of seeing it last night, and was thoroughly entertained. It was obvious the kids had worked their asses off, the voices were all very good, and you could tell each and every student on the stage was having the time of his / her life. Costumes were bright and colorful, just as the costumes for "Joseph" should be; however, they were still simple and not distracting. There were also several--LOTS, actually!--of new faces, which is always a good sign.

The band was right on; there are always snafus, as such in musical theatre, but they were only really noticeable to me because I can sing this entire show in my sleep!

My only problem was the lights. I'm sorry to anyone I offend, but several of us were ready to come up into the light booth and take over last night. The only redeemer is that it was opening night, and that's usually when the snags take place. The rumor I overheard was that light cues weren't written down at tech, and I hope for the light crew's sake that isn't true. I just hope Jim isn't TOO hard on them. I also hope they get it completely together by at least Sunday. It's too good of a show to be distracted by false light cues, or ones that are missed entirely. I know it's a hard job; I've run light boards in shows before and wouldn't necessarily do it again unless I absolutely had to. It's not the most desirable job in theatre (at least for me), but just focus and do your best.

On the whole, I have to say that productions like this one make me proud and happy to call myself a Guildo. Alumni or not, once a Guildo, always a Guildo. I tout this group so much it's ridiculous, and I'm sure people get tired of hearing about it, but it is the most like a family out of any theatre group I've ever worked with. Period. As much of a sap as I am, I have to admit it makes me teary eyed to go back and see shows at DB. That's mainly because I still know a handful of students involved, and they are all family. Also, I remember what it was like, standing up on that stage for the first time as a sophomore in highschool. And, for what I thought was the last time as a senior in highschool. I've made some of my best memories in that theatre, memories that will last me an eternity.

Sr. Barbara put it perfectly in her email this morning:
"Thanks for suggesting our going, MaryBeth. The upbeat feeling of the whole production seemed to stand for all that is best about Bishop DuBourg: enthusiasm, community, hard work, joy. Isn't it good to be a part of it?Thanks, Jim, to you and your cast and crews. Barbara"

I have to say thanks also, just for creating such a wonderful world away from school that so many students over the decades have called home for 4 years of their lives. And, to those of us like me, who still can't get away from it...because we simply don't want to.