My next chapter with the cast of A Christmas Carol, The Musical, the upcoming production at Creative Ministries Performing Arts Center's (CM PAC) of Long Island, continues with Tech Week.
For the first day, Director Tim Pappalardo and Lighting Designer Joe Naftal went through every cue in the first act to make sure everything will be lit properly. The following day will be dedicated to the second act.
The first thing I did, however, was watch some one-on-one rehearsals. James Lotito worked on his soft-shoe choreography with Choreographer Alyse Arpino. After James got his part down, the rest of the dancers in that number, “Abundance and Charity”, were brought into the room. Of course, everything came together swimmingly.
Additionally, Musical Director Christopher Mckee was on hand to rehearse the cast on their respective numbers. When you weren’t on stage, you were with Mr. Mckee or working on Choreography with Ms. Arpino.
Before heading back into the theatre, I couldn’t help but take a peek at the costumes being constructed by Debbie Parker. They are looking fabulous and most of them are brand new. My particular favorite so far was a floor length holly-green gown. I can’t wait to see how they look on the cast.
Some of the scenes that they went through were “The Streets Of London”, “Scrooge’s Parlor”, and “Fezziwig’s Bank”. Additionally, members of both casts had to get on stage to make sure the cues were correct. Being there are many children in the production, they divided the youth cast so they’ll perform on alternate dates.
As we winded down the long but very productive day, Mr. Pappalardo, Mr. Mckee, and Ms. Parker had some notes for the cast. Then some members of the cast sung carols as everyone was packing up.
My next piece on this great production will be of opening night this coming Friday, December 7th. By the looks of things, it is coming together quite well. Break a leg to the cast and crew!
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