Reading Through the Script

the script

Tonight we worked through the script again, this time paying special attention to the songs.  Alex has written another brilliant song–this time for Ewe,  so he and Jessie spent some time working out the kinks to make it flow more smoothly.

Jessie singing

As I sat back, watching and listening, I was struck by the passion that has gone into this show.  Everyone involved has given it all they’ve got.  Alex has poured his heart and soul into this script and he’s great about gently coaching us to make us understand the characters’ motivations.  Building puppets and developing the look of a show is one thing, and it’s important, but it’s all for nothing if  the puppets aren’t doing something engaging. 

Alex listening

 Alex’s script is very engaging, and even though we’re still working on timing and cues, it’s already something that I’m very proud to be a part of.  Good work, my friend!

The Dumas Center

Philip at Dumas

Yesterday we had the opportunity to have a look at the stage where we will be performing BULL: A Puppet Musical in November. The Dumas Center is a beautifully restored building that was once a hotel here in Roanoke. The offices for Opera Roanoke are located in the building, as well as a complete recording studio and theater. The Dumas is “a center for collaborative non-profit organizations dedicated to providing area citizens of all races and socio-economic backgrounds -especially youth (and the young at heart) – opportunities to gain life enriching appreciation and develop talent in the visual, cultural, performing and historical arts.”

Stage at Dumas Center

The theater seats 185 and is a beautiful state-of-the-art facility. 

Alex on Stage

It was great to get a feel for the place and to see how our stage is going to work in the space. I’m even more excited than before about this performance.  It’s going to be an unforgettable event.

T-shirt fun!

Puppets T-shirt

I made this new t-shirt after an inspirational talk with friends.  Go on over to the Thistledown Puppets Store and get one for yourself!

The Puppets Are Finished!

It’s taken quite a while, but I’m very happy that the four puppets for Bull: A Puppet Musical are finally finished.  I love all of them.  It’s a really weird feeling to see them sitting there as three dimensional creatures that once lived on the two-dimensional page.   There is still a lot more work to do as we begin the stage and props, AND rehearsals, but it’s a relief to have the cast assembled.

Bull

Pig

Ewe

Rooster