At any Northwood play or musical, audience members are always amazed by the incredible quality of the artwork and stage design, but few realize the incredible amount of hard work that makes the set possible. In an interview with The Howler, technical director senior Janay Sukkarieh reveals the technical preparations that go into every show.
Helen Yang and Zarina Yunis: Can you give us a brief description of the work you do as technical director?
Janay Sukkarieh: For set design, I ensure that whatever the artistic-minded designer wants is achievable, as my work involves more of a practical, engineering-oriented approach. I also oversee areas like props, carpentry, makeup and the other technical aspects that go into a show.
HY and ZY: Why did you decide to get involved in Tech Theatre?
JS: I joined my freshman year because I wanted to experience something new and get involved in theatre since I don’t sing or dance. As such, I became an usher, and I soon decided that I wanted to continue pursuing theatre to be on props, as I enjoyed being backstage much more than onstage. Later on, in my junior year, I started doing sound design and lighting and I bounced around to gain exposure to everything.
HY and ZY: How has being a part of Tech Theatre shaped your life?
JS: It’s taught me to be quick on my feet, and I have much better problem solving skills. I also know making mistakes is a part of life, and because it’s live entertainment, you cannot predict what will happen or anticipate anything because every night will be a little bit different, which is why I love it. It’s just rolling with the punches and being able to see how we can work with what we’ve been given and make the best out of it.
HY and ZY: Do you plan to pursue tech theatre in college and beyond?
JS: I have already applied to colleges as a technical theatre major. I really want to do this for a living. I don’t know specifically what aspect or if I’m going to continue being a technical director, but I do want to continue doing technical theatre because I love it a lot.
HY and ZY: What was the most difficult challenge you’ve had to overcome?
JS: Learning how to accommodate and make something happen but also knowing when to put my foot down and let people know what’s not achievable. It’s also a challenge learning how to balance between all the directors and crew members, and make everyone happy and keep us all on the same page.
HY and ZY: What has been your most memorable experience as a part of Tech Theatre?
JS: I think the opening and closing night of “Shrek: the Musical” during my sophomore year because, at the time, that was the biggest show I had ever done. I was overwhelmed and stressed about it, but when I got everything done, everything looked good on stage and people were enjoying the show, that really made it worthwhile.
HY and ZY: What advice to you have for any others who wish to follow in your footsteps?
JS: Say yes and take every opportunity you can. I only know the things that I know because I work on all of our regular productions as well as dance shows, talent shows and choir concerts. If you want to do something just get involved as much as possible.