Oh my gosh, we've made it to the end of the first week!

Wow, Friday. We worked really hard this week and I think the entire crew, production staff, and cast have absolutely earned the day off that we get tomorrow. And our effort shows - almost the whole show has been staged, which is a great accomplishment. I think all that is left, that hasn't been blocked on the stage, is some chorus stuff. That takes a bit longer because they are only available at certain times, harder to schedule rehearsals. But we are in good shape.

Today the conductor, director, and some cast did interviews with the local papers, which is usually pretty good press for us. I'll post them here when they are published. The Three Ladies then had musical rehearsal, and then we staged the most famous Queen of the Night aria. The Ladies don't do anything in that aria except enter with her, stand guard during the scene, and then exit with her. We hold our arms up in Hindu or Bollywood-style poses. I know it looks great, but it's tough on the arms. Man, I am such a wimp, I keep bitching about the physical demands of this show! I gotta lift some weights or something.

The real joy is that we have the veils for that scene! They will probably schedule extra rehearsals for us to practice with these things. They look so innocent while draped on their hangers.

But here is what they really look like, once in place. As Paul said, we probably take up 25 square feet each.

 Then I got a photo of THE Magic Flute

Here is Paul working with Pamina and The Queen of the Night, while Monostatos looks on

After rehearsal, I went to the sporting goods store, to treat myself for a good week. First I saw this, which made me laugh

And then I bought these babies, which I will break in tomorrow!

Then I capped off the night with a Skype with Noodle, so I will call it a night.