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Retro RFH Tower Player Techies

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The stage is getting set for the RFH Tower Players’ fall production of Nutcracker; and, there’s a need for some techie help in set construction. 

Yes, it’s a tough job, and those who have to do it love to do it. The need is just greater than past years for some tech crew help.

So, we’re taking you back … to the days of a rather opulent set and a diligent crew setting it.

Fall shows have long been a Tower Players tradition. Decades ago, the fall production was never a musical. It always cast only Tower Players — those who passed the audition for membership in the high school troupe.

There has been quite a variety of shows staged in the past several decades and quite a difference in genre. In fact, it’s a pretty sure bet that a lot of old Tower Players may not be familiar with some of the newer plays chosen for staging at RFH.

No, back in the day, the choices were usually classic comedy, farce, or straight-on drama. But, usually the playwrights were well doused in the contemporary spotlight. For instance, Neil Simon plays were frequently chosen.

In fact, it was the choice in the fall of 1977. While the theme of Plaza Suite’s vignettes was pretty adult, the cast, comprised of senior and junior couples, pulled it off quite well — and, yes, with comic flair. Ahem.

But, behind every cast is an apt stage crew setting the … stage. The crew for the Tower Players’ production of Plaza Suite in 1977 had its work literally cut out for it. After all, these students had to recreate rooms at the famous, upscale Plaza Hotel in New York City. And they did. From the smallest detail in fancy furniture and silver to fireplaces and wall moldings, the set was a masterpiece.

So, the Retro Pic(s) of the (George) Day hone in on the mastery of the techies behind every Tower Players production, from then ’til now.

Take a look. Recognize these RFH techies? What exactly are they building in these photos? Can you caption them?

Thanks again to the fabulous George Day for this look back in time on the RFH stage!