Just left the theater having checked in with Director Amber Mak sitting by the tech boards. Refinements continue to be coordinated into Paramount’s Beauty and the Beast this week although nearly 8,000 folks have seen the show since previews began last Wednesday night. After ongoing rehearsals this week, the finishing touches are all scheduled to be in place just in time for Press Night this Friday night! Lights, costumes and scenery are being detailed to Amber’s and the designers’ specifications but these enthusiastic preview crowds are swooning over the spectacle already achieved! I am loving the occasional tap on the shoulder I get by a patron to turn around and see their face and hear their words of praise and gratitude for the tremendous work being done on our holiday blockbuster.
“Thank you so much, we’re still working on it and its getting better every day!
“You don’t need to work on it! It’s perfect just as it is!”
Watching the Saturday matinee, the audience’s laughter and cheers alternate with awe to the superb singing and dancing in the show.
With eyes full of joy, they’ll go on to invariably complement our organization for the consistent and fine quality of our productions. And as I often do, I take a moment to realize I have the best job in the world. The colossal team effort that is Paramount Nation is making people so happy! The byword emphasized most in Amber’s speech the very first day of rehearsal was “collaboration.” And now, here we are approaching Opening Night and I’m tellin’ ya, she continues to hear everyone, galvanizing a communal effort among us that makes all the difference in the ravishing moments of this beautiful show. She is a true and gifted leader and I cannot wait for all of you to receive this very special gift for you and those you love this holiday season!
Watching the Saturday matinee, the audience’s laughter and cheers alternate with awe to the superb singing and dancing in the show. Throughout the ensemble, supporting cast and each of our leads, the voices are thrilling and the crowds are roaring! It’s such a great sound. People sitting in the dark, who most likely don’t know each other, applauding and shouting their praises to the stage, together in unison. To turn and look around and see their faces lit up by the stage lights, their faces light up as well from something within. To see that light of agreement and unity and warmth and delight, everyone together, just makes my day.
Love and thanks,
Jim