From the Inside Out

Into the woods we go again. We have to every now and then!

We’re three weeks away from opening night at McKinney Repertory Theatre (MRT). The cast is deep in the woods of rehearsals, practicing blocking, singing, lines, and choreography. Whew, it makes me tired just thinking about it. We rehearse four nights a week, and there’s still so much to do!

This is my first foray into the world of musical theater, and I have to admit, it’s been a very interesting adventure. I didn’t realize how complicated musicals were. There’s everything that goes into your standard drama production, but then you have to also add music, singing, and dancing. Trust me, it’s a lot.

Although my roles in this production are quite small, I’m still having a good experience, and it’s fun to watch the creative process that goes into a musical. I’m playing three characters: Red Riding Hood’s granny, Cinderella’s mother, and the giant (yes, she’s a woman). My characters don’t have a lot of stage time, but it is fun playing three very different roles — and I get to sing a bit, including some very, very high notes.

We have some outstanding actors and singers in this production. Some of them completely “wow” me. Rehearsals are chaotic at this stage, but I know the production will be top notch when it’s time to perform. The MRT is investing a significant amount in production, costumes and advertising for this show. It’ll be fantastic. For Tickets call 214 544 4630 or visit www.mckinneyperformingarts?center.org. And for a glimpse behind the scenes, check out the images below (I apologize now for the low, camera phone quality, but it’s better than nothing, right?).

First read through of the Into the Woods script

Rehearsing the opening of Act I

Trying to remember lines, singing, and choreography…not an easy task!

Rehearsing on stage in the theater at the McKinney Performing Arts Center

Our music director (and former Miss Texas) looks on as we rehearse a scene

The countdown to the holiday has begun! Before you know it, the 4th of July will be here, and it will be time to scope out a place to watch the local fireworks shows and parades. Many festivals and firework celebrations start on Friday, which means you can celebrate twice. After all, what’s better than one fireworks show? Answer: two fireworks shows!

If you’re in Collin County, here is the list of the events near you:

Southfork Ranch: America’s Tea Party, 4th of July Fireworks Celebration

McKinney: Red, White and Boom

Heritage Park: Sachse’s Red, White & Blue Blast

Frisco Square: Frisco Freedom Fest

For those of you who want to watch one of the hometown parades, I highly recommend the McKinney 4th of July parade. Gary and I will be participating in it this year, representing the McKinney Repertory Theatre and promoting our upcoming show, Hartburn Hotel. So, come out and see us — then buy tickets for the show which opens the following weekend (July 10)!

The parade begins at Old Wysong Parking Lot (corner of Hunt St. and N. Tennessee St.) across from the McKinney Public Library in Historic Downtown McKinney on July 4 at 10:30 a.m. Download the parade route here.

After the parade, you can stick around to check out the local car show, Veteran’s Salute and 14th annual ice cream contest.