What Have You Learned, Dorothy, Thanks, & Fin

I usually wrap these up with a brief acknowledgement of what I've learned through the experience, followed by "Thank You"s, and a final sign-off.

First, here's what I'm taking away from all of this as a director:

• Again, you can't do everything. You did pretty good delegating, but continue to divest your responsibilities to those you know you can count on. Just because you can handle extra, producer-like responsibilities when you direct doesn't mean you should.
• For those who offer to assist, ALWAYS keep tabs on their availability, and ALWAYS have a back-up resource. And if someone becomes unavailable, remember that you too have those situations: don't discount them the next time around, and they won't discount you.
• A clear, concise schedule is ALWAYS welcome.
• Continue to refine the balance between giving notes (after opening) and letting things lay.
• Working closely with Arryck's team, and coordinating the effort always works well. More CAT and main stage shows should work this closely.
• A strong ensemble cast is always better than a few, great people in key roles.
• Your instincts were right to NEVER act (even in a cameo) in a show you direct. The director's job is to maintain the big picture, and that's just not possible when you're on stage.

Okay, now for the big list of thanks! Sorry in advance for the "bulleted" approach:

• Thanks to the cast: John, Linda, Jack, Mark, Howard, Helene, Aaron, Jerry, Tami, Leland, and Jeff. It was a pleasure. I look forward to working with any and all of you again, either directing you, or as a peer on stage.
• Thanks to the crew: Jenn, Shawn, Amanda, Brittney, Mike, Meaghan, Jeff (again), Mary, Rita, Angie, Aaron (again), John (again), Cameron, and Arryck. Also thanks to the extended crew from Angel Street who helped make things very smooth: Janine, Shawn Lanz, David Banuelos, and Chris. You all made it look effortless, which we all know was not the case.
• Thanks to everyone else involved at CPT who helped make the show great, including Celeste, Dick, John, Gary, Jack, and Lucien. Special thanks to Mark Grisez for helping with the deposit on the prop weapons. Also thanks to our great volunteers who ensure our patrons have the best experience possible.

I guess that's pretty much it. I've submitted ten candidates for directing for CPT's 2008 season. I'll be working with Mark Fagundes' wife, Erin, designing the set for Conejo Players Children's Theatre late summer 2007 production of Once On This Island, and I'll be teaming up with Meaghan Quilop again for lights. I'm also trying to make time on the schedule in the fall to audition for Shawn Lanz' CPT main stage production of You Can't Take It With You. Shawn always has a knack for putting together a GREAT ensemble cast, and this show in particular is ripe for his touch. I'm also exploring directing opportunities elsewhere, but my focus over the next year will be primarily family.

Thanks again, everyone.