Shortage of Techies Plagues Campus Productions

Harvard drama producers this semester have had no problem finding action, but lights and camera seem to be a little lacking.

With preparations for shows on campus in full swing this winter, finding actors has been easy. However, finding those with the skills and interest in running lights, sound and other technical jobs on the set has proven far more difficult, leaving many in doubt as to the success of their own productions.

"We are having difficulty finding people who are willing to do the technical aspects of the show for us," said La Tanya N. James '99, spokesperson for Harvard Radcliffe Caribbean Club. "I don't know how this is going to affect the show."

The show, in its first year, is slated to open Nov. 21.

Some directors and producers, already busy with other aspects of production, find themselves having to pitch in to provide technical support.

"I have experience doing lights, running them during a show," James said. "If it becomes necessary, I'll probably end up doing the sound."

Experienced tech workers, on the other end of the shortage, say that they are experiencing a high demand, but haven't grown weary of the experience.

"It's hard work, but it's so rewarding" said Sarah A. Knight '00, working on the set of City of Angels which opens at Loeb Theatre this Friday. "You get to do things with different people as a team that you never thought you'd be able to do."

"It definitely is hard work though, and when I first started, I didn't know if I could take it all on," Knight added.

Many show directors have made efforts to attract tech help, only to be frustrated by a lack of staff. These efforts include multiple entries since September on the weekly Harvard-Radcliffe Dramatic Club (HRDC) e-mail newsletter, including one by James, that have gone unanswered.

The newsletter, published by HRDC Coordinator Oliver M. Lewis '00 as a service to club members, has highlighted problems shows have faced during the past few months with finding technical help.

"Techies are always in demand," Lewis said.

And larger productions aren't the only ones experiencing a techie shortage. Mainly Jazz, currently planning a Dec. 4 and 5 production in Reimann Dance Center is also currently seeking staff.

In light of staffing problems, directors said they are unsure whether or not a lack of extensive technical support will have any real impact.

"I don't know how it is going to affect the show," said Jones, who hopes to fill gaps before the curtain rises. "We still have time to find people."