The Final Countdown

Our last rehearsal before tech and dress, the first of 2023 and probably the first complete run with a full cast, though the technical side had a few people missing. It was also a chance to try out make up and ensure we had all our costumes and props.
Not a bad run through as it happened. Admittedly it did take four and a half hours, which would mean our audiences not getting out until midnight if we can’t speed it up a bit. Well, more than a bit. A lot if we’re being honest!
However - and if you’ll forgive the use of a hackneyed phrase - this is not my first rodeo. In the twenty nine years I’ve been doing Panto, this is the usual state of affairs as we approach opening night. It’s amazing how much the presence of an audience sharpens everyone up, and increasing familiarity with the lines will naturally lead to a quicker delivery.
A night off tomorrow. At least, a night off Panto. But, coincidentally, tomorrow night is also audition night for Lancaster Footlights forthcoming production of “Blackadder”, which I would like to be a part of, so I will still be up on a stage doing something. No peace for the wicked!