Laughter on the 23rd Floor
Raven
Theatre, Chicago, IL
Jeff Recommended *
May 2008
Assistant Stage Manager
Laughter on the 23rd Floor was inspired by Simon’s own early-career experience churning out jokes for Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows, where he worked alongside Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner and Woody Allen. Laughter introduces a room full of oddball writers, many based upon actual personalities, including Simon himself.
The
Sid-Caesar-like character of Max Prince, star of a 1953 variety show,
is a booze-guzzling, pill-popping comic genius who goes to any lengths
to protect his team in the face of network cutbacks. This hilarious play
chronicles the writing room’s outrageous antics and increasing stress
levels under the pressures of rising McCarthyism and television executives
resistant to sophisticated humor.
photo courtesy Dean LaPairie
"Swanee, how I love ya how I love ya, Swaaaneee." - Ira breaks into song
The Assistant Stage Manager was responsible for:
- Management and maintenance of props & set dressing (including scene shifts)
- Pre-show sound & dimmer check
- Running the light board
Paperwork & Other Links:
photo
courtesy Dean LaPairie
"What did he say about Marshall? ... I want to hear it exactly. Say it slowly. I don't want to miss a word."
Raven Theatre Stage Management credits:
- World Premiere of Misamerica (Co-Stage Manager)
- Jesus Hopped the 'A' Train (Stage Manager)
- Laughter on the 23rd Floor (Assistant Stage Manager)
photo courtesy Dean LaPairie
"You
think they'll know what kishkas are in Nebraska, Max?"
*The designation of "Jeff Recommended" is given to a production when at least ONE ELEMENT of the show was deemed outstanding by the opening night judges of The Joseph Jefferson Awards Committee. The entire production is then eligible for nomination for awards at the end of the season.
Laughter on the 23rd Floor
AUTHOR
Neil Simon
DIRECTOR
Michael Menendian
LIGHTING
Christine Ferriter
SOUND
Stephanie Farina
SCENIC
DESIGN
Ray Toler
COSTUME
DESIGN
JoAnn Montemurro
STAGE
MANAGER
Jeremy Wilson
