Janna’s Blog

I have recently been approached by an inquisitive fan who had some general questions and curiosities about the show. He thought they’d make great blog topics, and I’d certainly have to agree. Obviously there is some information that I would like to and must keep personal within the company, however I have realized that a typical day in the life of a theatre production is not really common knowledge to most.

Please feel free to ASK QUESTIONS about the show or my journey! Best way to learn is to talk to someone who is there first hand.

I’ll start with some I received from Don,

Q - Does the role feel routine now, and how long did that take?

A - Since the show has been running for almost seven months now, I’d have to say yes, I feel comfortable enough to call it routine. However, that only really happened recently. I had the opportunity while Elicia was on vacation to feel the weight of 6 shows a week and I must say that it was a whole new experience. It almost feels like a different show. I only normally have two performances, both with a few days in between to rest and prepare for the next. When you’re doing it everyday, you use up a lot more energy and still have to keep the performance new and fresh for the audiences. You learn when and where you can push and pull focus and energy throughout the show. I have a better grasp of the role now that I understand what goes into performing it more than twice a week.

Q - Do you ever reminisce about what was happening a year ago regarding the Maria search and CBC?

A - Quite a bit! We actually all got a Facebook message from Katie around St. Patricks Day because that’s when we all went to Maria school together. It’s nice to think of how much your life can change by simply making one decision, like trying out for a reality show! We’re hoping to have a Maria reunion sometime soon, but it’s difficult because we’re all so busy. Which is fantastic! Thank you CBC.

Q - Do understudies get their own costumes for the times they are on? Who covers their role when they get bumped up?

A - If you can believe it, all the understudies do get their own wardrobe for their role. (Yes, there are three giant wedding dresses floating around the theatre!) The budget for wardrobe was very high because all the pieces are handmade, many fabrics are imported from Austria, and they all have to be fitted to that particular actor. And they’re gorgeous. When an understudy has to go on for a role, we have Swings to fill in their original role. These swings are AMAZING. There are two males, two females and a male and female kid swing. The adults cover up to 8 to 10 roles I think and the kids up to 3. Yikes. Lots of work. Though when they aren’t on stage, we all have some fun backstage. If you’re interested, check out P-Town News on YouTube; a news series created by the two swing kids of TSOM!

I have some more for later posts, but keep them coming! Ask me through comments, or send me an email on my contact page.
Hope to hear from you all soon!
Janna