Curtain call

Last year I saw an incredible high school production of Les Miz. It may have just been because the show was a technical marvel, but they chose to have all the techies take a bow during the curtain call.

I think it's pretty awesome, but most of my friends think it's a terrible idea. They tell me that there's no theatre in the world where techies take a bow, and if these kids want bows then they should just audition for the show. I get that, and I don't disagree, but I've been trying to explain to my kids what an important part of the show the techies are, and I'd like to give them more exposure. But the very nature of their job requires a lack of exposure, so I'm not sure.

Plus, the idea of letting techies take a bow runs contrary to my own personal desires. When I act, I hate curtain calls. I think they're self-serving begs for attention. Similarly, I think that directors should be neither seen nor heard at a show. When I direct I hate giving curtain speeches because I think a director's work is done when audience members start showing up.

Still, I think back to how the audience of Les Miz applauded loudly for the techies, and though my friends and my instincts advise against a crew bow, I wonder if it's the best choice for the kids. Thoughts?

Not on the Test

by Tom Chapin