As Opening Approaches…
Dear Smirkus family,
The hum of the show music drifts through my window as I write this. Crisp sunlight glistens off the wet grass. It’s been a little while since I’ve blogged and for that, I apologize.
Things have been so exciting around here, but it’s been a little difficult to find a moment to sit and write. Everyone has been doing their part to get ready for opening day, Sunday! One cool thing that I’ve noticed at Smirkus is how willing everyone is to lend a hand to each other. Just last night, several Troupers gathered to help Patsy Bessolo, our costume designer, add last minute touches to costumes. Earlier this week all of staff spent the evening in the shop painting the props and set. Everyone is busy with their own tasks, but that doesn’t stop people from helping each other out.
Pyramids on Pyramids!
In the Chapiteau, yesterday classes and rehearsals turned into a stumble-through. In a stumble-through, the show is run slowly as transitions are added, and lighting and sound cues tested. With acts running in show order, the natural flow emerges. As the show starts off, the vibrancy of the Troupers swells, filling the entire tent. They dance across the ring and swing through the air. The whole performance is filled with high energy zest, but at one moment, they take all of the energy they have been radiating and focus it back into the center of the ring. The uninhibited spirit matched with the focused control is what makes watching the stumble-through so spectacular. The lighting might still be adding finishing touches and props might be missing, but spirit, what matters at the core of circus, is present.
Lights on Fabric
This afternoon, they ran through the show again. Tomorrow, they’ll run it once more at dress rehearsal. Then, in fewer than 48 hours, the show will open. People will wander around Millie, the front of house tent, and then find a seat on the rainbow colored bleachers. Little children will sit next to the ring awaiting the start of the show. Finally, the Troupers will have what they have been waiting for: their audience!
Enjoy the day,
Emma