Child Wrangling

For the past week (and for some of next week too), I have taken on the role of "child wrangler" to 18 children performers.  I kind of think of myself as "Mom" to the whole children cast and even to some of the grown ones.

Along with watching the kids in the green room, I also do make-up and dress kids in costumes.  The big part of child wrangling is sending them out all ready when it is their part.  I think I may have sent a few out too late last night.  Oops.

And of course, there is food that needs to be set out and then cleaned up.  That is my least favorite part.

The director didn't  have time to work and practice with the kids on one of their scenes, so I have been working with the kids on that too.  Their scene kept getting changed and the poor kids were getting so confused.  Now they've finally got it!

I've also been sewing.  Cinderella was using a modern apron from "The Cupcakery" for her cleaning apron, so I sewed one for her yesterday.  It was hard to sew something and not make it look perfect.  I even had to cut the bottom to give it a torn look.  But, I think, it looks great.

Today, I will be sewing the Fairy Godmother's wand bag.  It's going to be a little more complicated because of the materials, but I hope it all comes together.  I've never sewn with taffeta and organza.  Good thing I have my mom helping out!

Well, I'm sure you'd rather look at pictures instead of read all about it, so here you go!

The cast, crew and orchestra all meet at 5:00 pm for a potluck dinner.

A few of the kids I am with every night.

Good thing there is a TV or I'd go insane.

Some of the adults getting ready in the dressing room.

The Director.

It's been really fun watching him in action.

The Costume Designer.

She is also the director's wife and is seven months pregnant!

The Prince getting his nightly dose of theater make-up applied.

Cinderella!

I love her.  And she is sporting my awesome apron!

Clean up at the end of the night.

I'm so thankful for the great kids that help out although I did have to pay one of them 50 cents.  Hmm. . .

At the end of each night, the cast goes out into the lobby to meet with the audience, take pictures, give signatures, etc.  I couldn't get Daniel to keep on his mouse costume last night, but when he saw the kids taking pictures with Cinderella and the Prince, he had to have one too!  I think it is funny because he sees them backstage every night!  I'll have to try and get another pictures with him in his costume.

I had to snap a picture with these three ladies for two reasons:

1.  They are wicked step sisters and wicked step mother and they are hilarious!  Some of their scenes are my favorite.

2.  The one on the far right is my sister's good friend and let us know about the play this year so we could be involved!

And this is what my front room looks like from sewing for the play.

Please don't come and visit me right now. ;)

I've had so much fun being involved.  I am definitely trying out for a part in the play next year.

I love the theater!