backstage?- Page 2

[Elphie]

Posted: 1/15/04 at 11:36am

I've gone backstage once at the Minksoft, while JOSEPH was enjoying its short run there. I knew Kelli Rabke who played the Narrator and got to go into her dressing room after the show. Since it was many years ago, I dont remember much about the system of going in, but my dad said that it was pretty unsecure. We went to the stage door before the show and said we were friends of Kelli and she told us we could visit her after the show. The stage door attendant told us to ask for Joe after the show. So after the show we asked for Joe and were let in and lead to her dressing room. We could have been anybody- totally made up that story of knowing her! The only thing my dad could think of is that we were on a list because Kelli knew when we were coming, but the man never checked a list. Hmmm.

[Unknown User]

Posted: 1/15/04 at 11:42am

Just seek out Chip on the Les Miz message boards. She seems to have no problem sneaking backstage to stalk Colm Wilkinson.

In all seriousness, there really is nothing to see backstage. Everyone is generally bitchier back there because they're in a rush to leave. They're much more affable and kinder once they get outside and see their fans there. I've only been backstage when I know people working on the show, and even then sometimes I opt to wait for them outside because it's WAY too hectic in there. And then you have to be careful that you don't do something that could potentially screw up the area, which is rather easy to do when you're thrust into a building you're totally unfamiliar with and in a group of people all running around like chickens with their heads cut off trying to get out.

And you truly never look at the show the same way again. It's like working at your favourite night club and having to see it with all of its lights on before you open or when you close.

PS--If you think broadwayguy2 has the attitude, just wait until you get in the way of an actor who's running late. Updated On: 1/15/04 at 11:42 AM

[lc1965]

Posted: 1/15/04 at 12:30pm

I don't think it's "mean" or "attitude" to tell the truth candidly. We could be mean, but I'll just be candid: backstage is not for fans unless they know someone personally. I agree w/ the person who posted that it's like someone's home -- & isn't it tacky to try to "get yourself invited" into someone's home just because you're curious or think it'd be cool to be associated w/ that homeowner? I'm sure the original post-er was very young & doesn't understand the etiquette involved, but there it is. Adults should know better. Sorry to be so blunt...really, I am, but why ****foot around.

[CJR]

Posted: 1/15/04 at 12:35pm

I will also second the fact that the backstage area in most theatres is very small. While some backstage areas are bigger than others, most really only have enough room for the people who belong back there....

There's a sign backstage at the shubert that says something to the effect of "This boat only has enough room for those who row".