First Production Meeting...Here we go!

Last night our production crew came together for the official 'first meeting' for the Actors Guild of Parkersburg's production of The Wizard of Oz. It was interesting as each of us took a moment to share what our vision of the show was. Some reflected on seeing the classic movie for the first time while others shared what they hoped to be able to get to the stage. Combined, I think we came together with a lot of ideas and hopefully a shared vision to make this a unique event at the AGP.



Our production crew consists of the following:

Robin White - director

Bob Heflin - assistant director

Debbie DeWeiss - music director*

Dave Argabrite - production assistant

Susan Schuchts - stage manager

John Gradwohl - technical director



*The music director scenario has been quite interesting! Our original music director had to withdraw due to a health issue. Debbie DeWeiss agreed to help out, but is not available the last weekend of the show. Therefore, we've been eagerly searching for someone to Co-Direct with her. While we think we have this secured, we need to make sure it's going to work out before we post it! We know it will all work out!



One of our main topics during the meeting was the audition process for this show. Going on the assumption that we will have a large turnout for auditions, our team has decided to break up the auditions into groups. First up with be all those interested in the role of Dorothy. We're going to narrow these down by the end of that first audition. This audition will be at 2:30 on Sunday, May 18th. At 7:00 that evening, we will invite the finalists back for the role of Dorothy along with those men interested in the roles of the Scarecrow, TinMan, and Lion. Again, we will narrow those folks down as well. On Monday, May 19 we will invite those finalists back with anyone else who is interested in ensemble work or other principal roles. We plan to also narrow the field by the end of this audition and then have a call back on the 20th. Whew...that's going to be rough! Our challenge is to be fair, but diplomatic in our decisions while making the most of everyone's time.



In other areas, we are starting planning in costumes and set design and it feels like we are developing a good 'look' for the show. There's a lot to do in a lot of areas and we hope that many hands will make light work. (Yes, I love a good cliche!)



Check back often for updates as we continue down the yellow brick road!