Week 1: Getting started

Well, I’m on a new journey in Chicago this summer. I have an internship with Honest Theatre Company.  They are based in Rogers Park and the summer production is No Exit, an existential classic by French playwright and philosopher, Jean-Paul Sartre.  I know the script well and I love it!

My first day consisted of walking the streets near the performance location, Profiles Theatre.  I met up with Sharon, the wife of the Artistic Director, and we asked local businesses to hang our production posters in their windows or on their community boards.  Despite it getting a little cold, misty and windy, it was fun getting to know Sharon and a bit more about the company.  I was really excited to work with them.

Next, I met with my supervisor, Kelly and Sean, the Artistic Director, about my tasks for the summer.  I will be designing costumes, hair and makeup for the production, house manager during performances, and organizing a fundraiser to help fund the show.  I know I’ll be challenged with planning and organizing my time with planning an event--something I have no experience in--but I’m ready to take on a challenge.  I’m also going to learn other technical elements such as hanging lights.  

On June 8th, I sold tickets for the Geek Bar fundraiser.  Honest Theatre was hosting Monday Melee which also included a raffle and a Cosplay competition.  It was super cool success.  I met more company members and watched some intense Smash bros.

One of the winners of the Cosplay competition- she won a badge to Gen Con

On the left is the Melee tournament and on the right, I'm manning the raffle booth

The very next night, we had our first rehearsal and production meeting at director Whitney’s apartment.  The story of No Exit follows three characters: Garcin, Inez, and Estelle as they are put in a room with three benches by a bellboy.  They are told they are in hell and realize it’s quite normal; there isn’t the expected torture, fire and brimstone.  It is rather hot in the room, but that’s about it.  As they continue sitting on their respected benches, they realize that events must turn miserable eventually and understand that the three of them are meant to be the torturer for each other.  They realize Sartre’s statement that “hell is other people.”

In the production meeting, I found out the vision for the show.  There’s no time period, but Whitney wanted a modern twist on the 1940's.  We talked about each character and the kind of look she needs them to have.  She likes minimalist looks that range in boldness to softness depending on the character.

A glimpse at my costume design pin board. Go pinterest!

Maddie, the stage manager, and I at our first meeting!

That’s all I have for right now!  For the rest of the week, I’m researching my fundraiser, costume and hair designs and cute places to visit in Chicago--like doughnut shops and other fattening restaurants--while relaxing at my friend’s house (shout out to Kaitlyn and her family)!