This post has been long overdue and will chronicle all that has happened since we completed music rehearsals!

With eight days total to teach the music for this show (minus some individual coaching sessions), we were given two of those to run all of the music from both acts.  Since we had been given precious little time with each number, I knew the musical run-through was not going to be perfect, but the cast left with a concrete understanding of what was supposed to happen, even if everything wasn't completely nailed down by the time we finished.  Every day holds opportunities for learning, and they have not stopped learning since rehearsals have begun.

Part of that process begins at every rehearsal in the form of a short warm-up that I lead.  Through a series of vocalises and breathing exercises, I stretch their ranges comfortably, work to improve vocal production and tone for clarity, stability, and projection, and infuse character and emotion into their sound.  It's a lot to process, but I try to make it as fun as possible and relate all exercises to everything they do on stage.

Since music rehearsals have finally ended, my arms are no longer sore from vigorously conducting for three hours at a time AND the show is coming together marvelously!  Yes, we are still struggling with certain areas.  Yes, we are jamming a great deal of information into the cast members' heads every night.  They are fighting back and pushing forward, whether they are sick or missing a rehearsal or simply having more trouble than the rest with a particular part.  I must say, though, that I am proud of all of them and only expect more great things to come in these next two weeks leading up to opening weekend.