Quote:
Originally Posted by Spikesgirl
FoH was trying to get people reseated due to a SNAFU in tikceting. The entire show was sold out, so some comps were being asked (nicely) to give up their seats - won't bore you with details. Anyhow, suddenly the house goes to back and the show starts with Maria (Sound of Mucus) waltzing down the aisle and into a patron. Paying customers ended up sitting in the lobby until intermission before the problem could be fix.
Okay, my question - should the house have been held by the SM for this or was she right starting the show while patrons were still struggling with screwed up seating arrangements? I thought the house should have been held until the actress could safely move down the aisle and the patrons were safely down.
What would you do?
Charlie
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In all of the professional theatres I've worked in the House Manager turns over the house to the SM. So, a few minutes before curtain the HM will phone/radio the SM to give an estimate ("we look good for 8PM" or "There's still a line at Will Call, I think we'll need two more minutes"). Then, the HM will phone/radio again when he/she feels it's appropriate (AND SAFE) to begin the show ("The house is your's.)
Also, whenever actors enter through the audience, someone with a headset (from the SM staff) is with them. This person is there to contact the SM about potential problems, and to report that those performers are (or are not) ready for their entrances.
In short, the SM should not start the show without a "go" from the HM.
--Sean