And so it begins...

Whenever one begins the creation of a show there's always this awkward time when you're trying to gather your thoughts. You know what show you're doing, who's working on it, all of that jazz, but next is finding your individual way into the text of the show. For our production of Ruined it was more difficult than most because the situation was so far removed from our own. For me in particular it began with some research into the conflict in the Congo, and along with that the documentaries, and the pictures, and the stories, all depicting the atrocities of the war. All of that has a certain amount of shock value, because we as Americans don't really think about what's going on outside of our own frame of thought, but there was still something missing for me. I couldn't really describe it at that moment, but upon revisiting the script, I realized that it was the hope. No matter what, these people in this conflict, the people in the play, have a sense of hope that allows them to live beyond their circumstances, to live to tell their story, and make sure the world knows what has happened to them. After that discovery I was really able to make the connection to the show, and that is what i call the "WOW" moment. The moment when it all comes together for you, and you can begin to create the show. Now that I've established the meaning, if you will, of why this story and show is so important to me, I guess I should introduce myself. My name is Christopher and I am the Assistant Director / Musical Director, of the current production of Ruined at The College of William and Mary. Part of my production responsibilities will be to maintain this production blog, giving you the "backstage tour," if you will, of the process of mounting this incredible show. I can't promise you a lot, but I can promise some humor, some honesty, and a whole lotta sass. Maybe not so much on the sass...BUT I want to share with you the magic of this process, and I hope that you are willing to come along with me on what is sure to be a great ride.

Thanks and Love,

Chrich