Pine Plains, a small town in rural America, is only 100 linear miles but a planet away from Broadway. It is where I have been living for 25 years and I know it quite well, too.
These two worlds finally came together when the local high school decided to put on THE MUSIC MAN, a play about another small rural community dealing with its encounter with the reality of dreams. I know from experience how making a play also makes a unique community. I loved watching them form and here was a chance to see three of them interact with each other.
How could I not ask if I could film the making of this play?
We’ll get back to defining democracy, but first, enjoy!
Defining Democracy: Examples
Moments from the Film (in progress)
There are two worlds of theatre magic: the illusion on the stage and the reality backstage that creates the illusion.
The film took you backstage to see how the community was created. If you are an actor, this is how you see the show. From the wings.
Members of the “outside” community helping out, involvement
The play was produced by the local Stissing Theater Guild a member-managed rather than professionally managed group in Pine Plains, NY. I happen to know the people involved — they may be amateurs and as you have seen, they certainly are not dilettantes.
The high school principal, leaning back laughing, is having a dinner break with students who are her fellow actors in the play.
Everyone pitches in, swaping roles in order to help out .