So many people work tirelessly behind the scenes on any production and we take this opportunity to shine a light on the people behind the scenes in MOLL.
As with any production the cast are naturally out front in the limelight but there is another group of people tirelessly working away in the background without which no production would be possible. These are the ‘unsung heroes’ and we in Clonmel Theatre Guild would like to shine a spotlight on them for a change in grateful appreciation for all they do.
No production could take place without a Director and the guild is proud to have the vastly experienced actress and director Patricia Harte at the helm for this play. Patricia started work on MOLL last September when she had the task of deciding which play the guild would perform for it’s spring season production. After much research Patricia settled on John B Keane’s hilarious comedy MOLL. She then sat down and worked out her interpretation or vision for the play. Readings or auditions to cast the parts then took place where the director fit the actors into her vision to achieve the best production possible. Patricia’s work didn’t stop there as hours of rehearsals followed and under her experienced eye the smallest moves were tweaked and perfected. Like a proud mother Patricia will sit in the wings of the White Memorial Theatre in May, at that stage her work on this production is done and its up to the wonderful actors to wow and entertain the audience.
Equally as important is the role of Producer. Pamela O’Riodan has been a member of the guild for many years working behind the scenes. She makes her debut as a producer for MOLL. Pamela’s work as producer also started months ago when she assembled her background team around her. Essentially in her role as the producer she looks after all the things that ensure the play goes onstage from booking the venue, organising ticket sales, ensuring the set is built and taken down to sorting the raffle prizes. This is a vast and hugely rewarding role and requires great skill, which Pamela has plenty of, to keep on top on everything ensuring everyone on her team is up to speed and that all problems are resolved in a timely manner. Pamela’s work only finishes when all the applause is over and the theatre vacated. Then she can sit back and enjoy the fruits of her labour.
Suzanne Dunne takes on the role of assistant director for MOLL. Suzanne is a wonderful actress and had starred in many of the guild’s productions. She hopes to direct in the near future and is assisting Patricia Harte and learning the ropes on this production.
Publicity is essential in our fast moving world and Adrienne Small is looking after all the publicity for MOLL. Having produced the guild’s last sell out production ‘Boeing Boeing’ before Christmas, Adrienne looks after press releases, the guild’s website and facebook page, online ticket sales, radio interviews, photo calls and has even commissioned fellow members of the guild to write and produce a 2 minute video sketch to advertise the play based on Father Ted.
Edmond Ryan is a busy man on this production. Not only is he playing the part of Fr Breast in the play, he is also in the process of designing and building the set. Edmond and director Patricia Harte sat down at the beginning of rehearsals and decided on a set, which allows the play to flow with effortless easy. Of course this is not just a job for one person and other members of the guild will be on hand to help and no doubt given paintbrushes to decorate the set. Edmond will be seen in the White Memorial the weekend before the play with a drill in one hand and a script on the other!
During any play the stage manager is essential to ensure continuity during the performance. Patricia Keane makes her debut as stage manager and has also taken on the role of props manager. Patricia will liase with the producer and be responsible for sourcing the furniture for the set, the costumes and all the props needed during the play. Patricia and her team will look after all set changes and the needs of the cast behind stage during the show. As the priests in MOLL are fed a good Irish fry, don’t be surprised if you get the smell of freshly cooked rashers during the show – it will be Patricia busily cooking away in the background!
No play can be without sound effects, music and lighting. Laura Black and Paul Kelly are both very experienced in this area and have looked after the sound and lighting for many of the guild’s past performances. Whilst nobody sees Laura & Paul who will be tucked away in the sound booth in the White, their job is essential to creating the atmosphere the director requires in the theatre to make this the best possible experience for the audience.
These are only some of the people involved in the upcoming production and there will be others who meet and greet the public as they arrive, help the cast with make-up, put up posters, help with loading and unload and so much more. These members are the heart of the guild because without them no show would be possible.
If you would like to join the guild in any capacity, please contact us on info@clonmeltheatreguild.org or through our facebook page. New members are always welcome. Tickets for MOLL are available in Marian’s Bookshop (052) 6123813 and on our website or our facebook page. We look forward to seeing you there.
