New crew and old crew work together to make Rent spectacular.
photo by Gustavo Garcia
The technical part of Rent is showcased through its masterfully sculpted set. The metallic stairs and stagecraft, coupled with the spectrum of stage lights, gives the show a great edge and a true Broadway feel, as well as providing many levels and dimensions to the stage.
With the cast of Rent working hard to make it a big success this year, the tech crew, who work behind the scenes, are already making impressive set pieces to mimic the real Broadway set – including a staircase leading up to exactly the same stage the characters prowl around on during a big number.
“Tech crew is not just behind the scenes, they are partners in the production,” said Drama Director Michael Palmieri. “They’ve built the set from the ground up.” There are many different jobs in tech crew, with students specializing in spotlights, music, painting, and building; but everyone functions as one unit. During the production, stage crew is also responsible for handing out programs and selling tickets. The crew also built 20 frames to support the giant wall on stage.
“We try to attract quality people,” Palmieri said. There are thirty kids in the stagecraft class, and most of the stage crew is made up of the 8th period Tech class that teaches TJ students the basics of set building and the over all design. Among other things, Tech class teaches the right way to use power tools and proper texture techniques. “My experience in tech crew has been amazing. You get to learn a lot about stage design, lighting and building,” said senior Conner Keleberger, a member of the RENT tech crew in charge of the new light board in the auditorium. “I took two two,-hour classes on how to use the light board.”
“For now everyone’s building,” said Palmieri. The crew has been working since the beginning of November and are already making the stage beautiful and, most importantly, safe for the actors, getting help from David Pinson a professional handy-man who has been working closely with the kids to make sure every detail of the set is secure and that things run smoothly.
With last year’s stage crew and a fresh crop of kids coming in, Palmieri couldn’t help but gush about all of the new and old talent. “They are hard workers, skillful – they welcomed new members with open arms,” said Palmieri. “They come down here everyday cheerfully and get right to work.”
