DECEMBER 10, 1971
How To Direct V-Show;
Or How I Went Crazy
Yes, folks, it's time once again for your friendly student director to talk to you about her favorite subject and mine - V-Show! The fun column which answers the question where did I go wrong?
It all started back in the summer of '71 (no, I didn't lose my innocence) when, much to this person's amazement, she discovered that she was V-Show director. After carefully adding up my bribes I selected 10 well and able Americans to help me and M. in the impossible task of organizing Maine's Variety Show.
Several months (and beers) later, we presented to Maine West a totally new and different V-Show, which we sincerely hope gave the people who were at the show an enjoyable and entertaining evening.
We will stop here and give you an outline of how to direct a variety show (let me tell you it isn't easy).
First, as I have already stated, you obtain well and able Americans to help you. Second, you conduct several planning meetings, where you hope some work will get done. Third, you hold tryouts and try to sit through all the very talented(?) acts.
Eighth, argue with anyone and everyone to get what you want done. Ninth, don't sweat and scream too much during performances (it's bad for the guy next to you). Ten, commit yourself to Forest Hospital for a possible cure to your insanity.
You may be asking yourself why I am still writing - if you had a gun pointed at your head, you would write, too. Anyway, you need one more ingredient for your show - a bunch of fantastic people. Without the hard work, sweat, and love of everyone involved in the show (cast and crew), it just will not work.
To next year's staff and cast a couple of words of advice: Do your own thing - worry about what you are doing and not what has been done. Give your all and you will have a heckuva show and time.