Time went so fast that after a few weeks of preparation and practice, we had our CAE Technical Dress Rehearsal last November 18. Most of our props and costumes were made in a rush. As I stepped inside the classroom early that morning, everyone was busy. Most of my classmates were going to and fro, asking questions and clarifications. Our schedule was still in the afternoon but the hairdos were done in the morning. As for the costume of the guards, we cut the cloth into pieces that day also. So I called it cram. Fortunately, most of our subjects in the morning were given for preparation, except for Biology. I understand that we should also catch up in other subjects.
While preparing, I remembered that I have not memorized one part of my lines. I was wearing my costume and makeup but the most important thing that I should do, or shall I say- I should have done before, was missing. I did not memorize my lines intentionally. I memorized them because of regular practices. And I ended up deciding to adlib. Of course I did not tell our directress about this or she’ll get mad. Before the TDR, I rested in the classroom and retouched my makeup. I did not really feel nervous compared to my other classmates.
One the things a section must not forget before starting the TDR is prayer. As usual, we had a company call for prayer and then we started. It went fine (Define fine). The technical for me was neat. A few mistakes but that’s part of it. I mean, we cannot get rid of mistakes. There was one time the music was late so good thing our characters know how to adlib. Of course, some forgot a few of their lines (that includes me). Here is the funniest thing ever happened in the TDR! We had this banquet scene and so food was the star in that scene. Everyone onstage did not hesitate to get some (count me in). And because we were too stunned with the taste of the food, we almost forgot that we still have to go on with the play. We were delivering our lines with our mouths full of food. I don’t what happened but I forgot to give the pendant to one character and in the banquet scene, the king will find out that the pendant was lost. My eyes opened very wide and I quickly got the pendant and threw it at the side. People at the backstage laughed at what I did. And I said my lines with cheese sticks in my mouth.
The TDR, as a whole, was a success. Although we had some things to improve on like voice projection, characterization and annunciation, I was happy with the outcome. Thanks to the critic, Mr. Joseph Albana for helping us to improve our play. Hopefully, on Monday (our pre-judging), there will be an improvement on our performance. Good luck to us!
