set design

It's Willows Wednesday!
Here are two views of the set model, created by our ATD Jillian Warburton.  The model doesn't have all of the walls (in case you're thinking stage left looks rather bare), bannisters, or the overhead beams.
Here's the concept: Per the script, the entire story is told within the confines of the abandoned Toad Hall.  Because it is a memory play, we didn't want solid walls; therefore, the audience will only see partial walls.  The actors will use the furniture from Toad Hall to tell the story.  The audience will be surprised (I hope) as to how we use the space and the furniture. 
Here's an example:

We experimented in rehearsal.  What do you think this is?

The Wind in the Willows runs October 17-20.

The Evolution of Fabric

Happy Willows Wednesday!  The picture above shows the same piece of material.  The one on the left is the original.  We have a huge roll of it, and Anna, QCT's costume designer, suggested we use it for one of Mr. Toad's suits.  I said I liked it, but it felt too blue (hard to tell in the picture).  She dyed it green.  That is the middle piece.  I said I liked that it was more green, but overall it felt too dark.  Then, Anna, being a smart cookie, soaked the original fabric in "color remover" and then dyed it green.  That is the strip on the far right.  I am so pleased with how it turned out.  The look of the piece on the right is what we will use for Mr. Toad's costume.

The wind is blowing.......

The next student theatre show, "The Wind in the Willows," has been cast and, as of last night, rehearsals have begun!  There are 23 actors, playing multiple characters.  There are 17 students and 6 adults featured in this production.  For some of the actors this will be their first QCT production, and for some, this will be their first time on stage anywhere! 
This week, we are just reading the script.  We take a few days to "just sit and read."  This gives us the chance to make sure we understand what we are saying and why we are saying it.  Next week we will start "blocking rehearsals."  This is where we put the show up on its feet and we figure out how to "physicalize" the story.
Someone on behalf of the company will try to keep you posted on the making of this production and any behind the scenes antics.

We hope you'll come see "The Wind in the Willows" at Quincy Community Theatre.

Brandon
Director