Liberty High School over the years has produced many different shows and musicals. We always see the magic after it’s been practiced and prepared for us, but what goes on backstage? How do the actors prepare and what goes into making the production?
It all starts with a director and auditions. To make a production you must have a cast. Actors are notified about auditions weeks to months prior (ideally) to give them time to prepare. When putting together a cast, the director needs to look at specifics to pick the best actor for the role. Those specifics vary depending on variables such as the show being produced, or if it’s a musical vs a play. “In a musical, I’m looking for one, vocally singing, and two, how they fit a character… and I work alongside Mrs. O’Konski, and together we will listen to students sing and if they fit a certain role or if they can fit different roles or multiple roles, then it comes down to some acting chemistry,” said LHS theatre director, Mr. Vest. While casting for a play, you don’t have to worry about vocals or dancing skills like you would in a musical.
After a production has been cast, you get to the start of rehearsal almost immediately. All of the preparation can be stressful and hard for the actors. “One of the hardest parts is probably time management and organization,” said junior, Karly McDonough. Similarly, senior, Kevin Eley said “Memorizing lines, for sure, is the hardest part.” During rehearsal, more than just lines get practiced. They practice their blocking (movement around the stage) as well as prepare their costumes.
As opening night nears, tech week comes into play. Tech week is production week for the cast and crew. During tech week, the show is run all the way through while also adding the final elements of the band/orchestra and lights. “My job really as the director, is to take a step back and not stop things mid-rehearsal. It’s to almost start to let go and let the actors and crew take care of the show,” said Director, Mr. Vest.
A lot of time and effort goes into making these productions for the entertainment of the LHS community. Weeks of preparation go into making sure everything is the best it can be. Our actors and crew are all extremely talented individuals and if you can, you should go support them all for the spring musical The Addams Family.
