8.15.01

i got a new cell phone. i found one of those tools online that finds all the possible words that a given phone number can spell. my new number is 208-HUG-GLOB.

i realize i oughtn’t post this, since all you stalkers will have an easier time calling me now, but whatever.

i heard a great analogy for stage management last night. the stage manager is like the court jester. the jester’s the one hovering just behind the king’s ear. he’s the wisest guy in the room, but his wisdom (and power) lies in knowing how to present information. the jester can tap the king on the shoulder and say, “look:” and show him a whole new way of looking at the issue. he can transform and manipulate the king’s vision of the world just slightly so that he makes his point through subtly, not brute force. he’s certainly the sneakiest character in many a courtly drama.

the savvy stage manager works with the director in much the same way. the director may own the room, but it’s the stage manager who ultimately runs it. he can tap the director on the shoulder and say “look:” and gently lead the rehearsal/production/issue at hand in a whole new direction.

a very dear friend of mine once accused me of being manipulative. i didn’t believe him at the time, and as a result, i lost his friendship. it wasn’t until much later that i realized he was right. at least i’m in the right business now. too bad i don’t get to wear the funny hat with the bells on it.