Q: How did you get started in Sound Design and Operation?
A: My wife was on the Board of Directors of WCT and they needed people to run the sound in the booth. So I volunteered and got trained on running the sound for a show. At that time, all sound was run on two CD players. Currently we are delivering sound from computers utilizing specialized theater software.
The first show I ran sound for was “Born Yesterday” directed by Rich Mancini. He was very forgiving and patient. I got a lot of gentle corrections after the performance…”good effort but can you change….” Luckily there were more experienced people in the booth to show me the ropes.
Q: What is the difference between sound design and operation?
A: Running sound is following the script and hitting cues on time. Sound Design is basically supporting and enhancing the play. You help the director paint certain images within the play. If you do it right it will enhance the overall theatrical experience.
Q: What was the oddest sound cue you had to do?
A: Well, the funniest one was the sound cue that started “Driving Miss Daisy”. For something that serious, a car crash, it actually got a lot of laughs because it was in an amusing context.
There have been big improvements in sound at WCT with the introduction of computers. We now have much more capability and flexibility as to what you can do with the sound. I am always learning something new and it combines my musical interests with my computer background.
Q: What would you say to budding sound people?
A: I do not know, as I am still a budding sound person myself. However, you are always learning something new and you get to work in a theater with a lot of fun, interesting people. It is challenging and you learn a lot. The biggest compliment I got was to have several audience members seek me out after a show because they wanted a copy of the sound track. Now I find when I see a show I actually study the sound.
So if anyone is interested in sound design or operation – just send us an email at info@westportcommunitytheatre.com we would love to have you volunteer!!