[SML] Thank you SML

[Richard Niederberg]

Dear Greg,
Well Spoken.
/s/ Richard

On Sat, Mar 10, 2018 at 6:21 PM, gbierly--- via Stagecraft <
stagecraft at theatrical.net> wrote:

> I am feeling a bit nostalgic tonight and wanted to write my thanks to the
> entire list.  I have said before how I appreciate the wisdom and support of
> this list.  Here at Hempfield we are in our run of Andrew Lloyd Weber’s
> Phantom of the Opera.  When the directors announced the show this Fall I
> was filled with doubt about my ability to stage this show.  I know this
> show can look really bad if not done correctly.  I am turning 50 this
> Spring and have been working shows for nearly 40 of them.  We are
> successfully and SAFELY staging the three magic lasso scenes.  I have no
> doubt these students are COMPLETELY safe.  Even 10 years ago I don’t think
> I would have attempted this effect on my own without hiring an outside
> professional.  It is through the wisdom of this list and my experiences
> that I have accomplished this.  I’ll never forget a USITT class I sat
> through on wire rope and Delbert Hall saying “If you don’t feel safe doing
> it, DON’T DO IT!”  This has resonated through my past 20+ years as a TD.
> We are also doing the chandelier drop.  I am lucky enough to have Tait
> Towers 20 minutes up the road and are supportive enough to provide us with
> a programmable winch to allow the effect to be done repeatably in total
> safety.  It doesn’t hurt that one of their automation programmers is a
> graduate.  I knew my limitations when I found the director used a pair of
> ornamental swords to choreograph a fencing duel.  I immediately contacted a
> local fight choreographer to rent rapiers and check the choreography.  I am
> taking some flack from administration but would not sacrifice safety.  This
> list has many seasoned vets that in their eyes I am still a young buck, but
> from you I have listened and learned.  To the other part of the list that
> considers me one of the old guys, to you I suggest you live by Delbert’s
> words and whatever you do don’t overestimate your abilities.  Always err on
> the side of caution.  My twin daughters graduated last year (both were
> performers) and my son entered this year as a Freshman and joined the stage
> crew.  Here comes the next generation and I hope I have instilled not only
> the safety but the art behind our craft.  I had a lot to say and rambled a
> bit but wanted to post this a tribute to SML and its members for supporting
> me over the past 20 years.  Thank you.
>
>
> Greg Bierly
> Performing Arts Center Manager
> Hempfield High School
>
>
>
>
>
>
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-- 
/s/ Richard
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