Gold in the Hills

Vicksburg Mississippi is famous for many reasons. Most notably it's importance during the American Civil War. It was a prosperous town of trade, and it was used as a sort of depot for the Confederate forces. Heavy barges moved up and down the river, supplying troops, cargo, and supplies. The Union forces could not attack Vicksburg from the river, so they dug a canal on the west side of the Mississippi to circumvent the city. The Union forces landed further south in Natchez, and worked their way northeast eventually moving west and laying siege to the hilly city. After 40 days the city surrendered on July 4th. Because of this, the city did not celebrate Independence Day for over 100 years. The loss of Vicksburg was a detriment to the Confederate States and was one of the nails in the coffin for them.
In 1929, Vicksburg was once again in the news, during the big flood of the Mississippi River Valley. The efforts put forth by the city of Vicksburg led to the establishment of ERDC the Engineering Research and Development Center which makes great technological leaps in studying the river, as well as other bodies of water. It is an important research center with both civilians and the US Army Corps of Engineers.
One of the more little known fames of Vicksburg is "Gold in the Hills" a melodrama set in the 1890s. The play was not written in Vicksburg, nor does it take place in Mississippi at all; however, the play has been performed annually since March 28, 1936. That's right, this march "Gold in the Hills" celebrates its 75th anniversary of being performed in the City of Vicksburg. The play was originally performed on the Riverboat "Sprague"
The Sprague was the largest stern-wheel paddle towboat ever built, which held the world record of tonnage moved, funny enough it also held the record for tonnage lost. In the 1930s the city of Vicksburg purchased the Sprague for the price of $1.00. The riverboat was then converted into a museum and floating theatre. It was also featured in the 1951 film "Showboat" Unfortunately in 1974, the Sprague caught fire and burned, eventually sinking 9 years later. After the Sprague caught fire, "Gold" moved around to different venues until the Parkside Playhouse(known locally at the Little Theatre) was built, giving it a permanent home. Again, "Gold" was in danger when Parkside Playhouse caught fire destroying many of the sets, props and costumes for the play. However, "Gold" continued on, again needing a temporary home until the Little Theatre could be repared.
The show must go on, and it has for 75 continuous years, giving Vicksburg and "Gold in the Hills" a place in Guiness' book of records for the longest running melodrama in the world.
The show itself is an olde tyme melodrama, consisting exaggerated dialogue and gestures as well as music. There are 3 main characters: a handsome hero, a innocent heroin, and a dastardly villain. There is also an ensemble of supporting characters. During the 3-act play the audience is encouraged to participate by cheering for the hero, booing the villain, and (until recently) pelting everyone with peanuts. The peanuts were a big part of the show for many years and after the Theatre fire they've been on hiatus; however they will be brought back for a special presentation of "Gold" on the 28th.

Fast Food, Night 7

After a few weeks and rehearsals, we finally had the entire cast on stage. The production is going smoothly so far. Each person is finding their character - adding to the actions and dialogue. We've been working on blocking, which is basically where you move and stand during the scene. For my part, it's fairly simple, as I mainly deliver my lines as I move across the stage. Only a few times do I stop and interact with the others.
There is a lot of energy on set, and everyone is having a great time. The script is funny and strikes true to heart for anyone who has ever been involved in theatre.

Fast Food, Night 1

The next main stage play being put on at Parkside Playhouse in Vicksburg MS is a piece written by a local. It is based on the shenanigans that take place in the green room during the performance. Tonight was our first table read. Less than half of the cast appeared.
There is a mixture of theatre veterans and newcomers in the cast. I myself am playing the part of the "Director" he's aloof and snazzily dressed. Among the other characters is the Stage Manager, other tech crew members, a couple of children, the diva, as well as other people you'll run into at a normal community theatre.
The read through went well. Though I didn't expect it to be so soon after the previous play which I was the light technician for. I was hoping to have at least a week to rest between shows. At least this next one I'm only acting in and not doing any tech work.
during the table read, the atmosphere was warm and friendly. We did what we had to and had fun with it. It took a little over an hour, I have a good feeling about this one. :)

Random Theatre

I step forth upon a darkened stage. Slowly, the curtain opens, and I walk past the proscenium. There is a silence in the air. All I can hear is the sound of my own breath. In a flash, a hot spot alights, revealing my face to the audience. The sudden shift has left me temporarily blinded, but I quickly compose myself. My mouth opens to speak, and my heart sinks. I've forgotten what to say. Feverishly my mind races. Searching for the words, I had until this moment known as true as my own name. By this time, my sight has returned and all I see is a vast ocean of annoyed faces. Each motionless, quiet, yet speaking...to me.
"Get on with it."
"What a jerk."
"Doesn't he know anything?"
"Por que, ajar? No se."
The voices grow ever louder. I know they are all looking to me to start the show. I still cannot find the words. Nervously struggling, I begin to speak again.
"Welcome..."
Strangely, more words follow. Whether they were the correct ones, I shall never know. It felt strangely hot. As I spoke, I could feel my temperature rising. Was I sweating? I continued to speak the introduction to the captivated faces I saw before me. Before I knew it I had come to the end of my speech.
"Thank you, and enjoy the show."
I gave a slight bow and retreated to the safety behind the curtain as it closed around me. All I could hear was applause. I had done it. I said my piece. I could breath again. I felt the fever rushing away. I was sweating. Backstage I was met with smiles and back slaps. Calmly I marched through the back hallway to the green room. I met no ones' gaze as I entered and hurriedly, deliberately moved into the men's dressing room. I exhaled and released my tense shoulders. Across the room I could see myself in an upright mirror. My fly was down.
This blog is to share some of my many experiences in the world of community theatre. I will discuss shows long past, shows to come, and my thoughts on what is theatre. Please join me as I explore the inner reaches of my psyche, and find the funny in the morbidly embarrassing.