1-What were you expecting the experience to be like, and is that was happened in the end?
I was honestly expecting the experience for the performance to be successful, and that’s what happened in the performance. Even though there were some difficulties during rehearsals, they were all sorted out, and in the end we created a performance that was fun and engaging.
2-From the start of rehearsals until the performance, what knowledge did you gain or how did you change?
I learned that when preparing for a performance, there needs to be a lot of time put into rehearsing and getting ready to perform. This way, we are able to reduce any possible things that could go wrong during the actual performance.
3-What was one of your favorite moments during rehearsals and performing?
My favourite moment during rehearsals and performing was we were able to shoot the cannon and see the reactions of people watching. It was also really nice to watch the sugar plum fairy dance, and how people behind the stage prepare to perform (such as the quick change Mei-Li had to do in Act I).
4-What do you now know about preparing for a dance production like this?
I know learned that its very important to work together in a performance where people of all ages are all putting in effort into the same thing. Especially when my performance was an ensemble, so it was important to be able to coordinate properly.
5-What are some things you excelled in?
I excelled in being on time for rehearsals, and doing my best in each one as if it were the actual performance.
6- What could you have improve on?
I could improve on keeping my facial expression blank for my character, as there were some times I nearly started laughing on stage, and had to look away from the audience so they wouldn’t notice.
7-What are some things about the production that you would want to stay the same and what are some things that you would want to change? For example, performing over multiple days, having involvement in other parts of the production.
I think performing over multiple days is crucial to know what is happening in the performance, so that should stay the same. I think it would also be fun for different dance classes to combine together and work on something, as well as their own separate ensembles if that were possible. Although it may be hard, this means there would be more nian monsters and warriors fighting against each other, and it’ll be more similar to the actual Nutcracker production. I also think the costume designs are quite good, although I think there might need to be some changes with the warriors, since some people didn’t realise I was a warrior without any extra context.
8-How would you want to be involved in this production next year?
I think doing hair or makeup or helping with costume design would be fun. Anything backstage rather than dancing on stage, since I figure I’d be better at the former.