DP’s spring musical, “Anything Goes,” is set to debut this April, and has the backstage crew in action. Although they are short staffed, the crew has been starting to clear their workspace for the upcoming show.
“We [are] start[ing] to declutter and rearrange the closet space,” said the Senior Head Customer and Costume Representative, Luna Santamaria.
There are a few problems within the backstage workplace, like organization and a need for new members. Currently, the costuming crew is made up of just two members, and the carpentry crew only has one: Cam Middleton.
“[It’s] kind of difficult to try to encourage people [to participate], but we try,” Santamaria said.
Along with the setbacks the backstage crew faces, they are also creating things from scratch, like costumes and stage scenes. The actors have started to use the props made by the backstage crew which, to Santamaria, is a “rewarding” feeling.
“Proud of it? Yeah. It’s really like a proud moment.” Santamaria said.
One of the benefits of being part of the backstage crew is the opportunities to communicate with the other students.
“It’s a guarantee…you’re gonna make friends and you’re gonna, like, have life-long bonds that will stick with you for a while.” Middleton said.
Students also get the chance to work for theater without the need to be on stage if they don’t want to.
“It’s like a nice way to still work in theater,” Santamaria said.
Students that are part of the backstage crew, not only create new relationships, but they also develop skills that can be used in the future. Students learn leadership skills, just like Middleton, Santamaria, and Maria Hernandez, the senior stage manager, who helps organize crew, actors, and the scheduling. Students also learn how to use power tools, sew, and take measurements.
“I also help connect both crew and cast to make sure that they’re both involved with each other as not excluding.” Hernandez said.
Because of the low number of students involved, the current crew members encourage other students to join. No experience is required, and backstage is flexible with students, allowing them to work, participate in after-school programs, and do sports.
“Even if you can only come once a week, we are happy to have your help.” Middleton said.
Backstage also gives students more social skills and helps them build new friendships.
“You’re gonna meet incredible people and, like, it’s just gonna be really cool.”
