As of July 1, the Rossland Gold Fever Follies began their summer fun. Trapped In The Murphy Inn, my script, was phenomenal. When I passed the baton over to the director, Kyle Collins, I had to make sure he could handle the epic adventure which would take place in the Miner’s Hall twice a day, five days a week.
I quickly learned he graduated from the University of Lethbridge, recently participated in a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles marathon, began emails with, “Message from the Overlord,” and quoted Star Wars constantly. To put it plainly, I knew he was the chosen one. It’s said that he would destroy the Sith, not join them. Bring balance to the force… er, what I’m getting at is I knew he perfect for my script and for Follies.
I took off for the month of June to let Kyle do his magic with the cast. A few days into July, I sat down with him for an exclusive 1-on-1 interview. And, I got right to the point.
Brian Turner: Was my script the best thing you’ve ever read?
Kyle Collins: Absolutely. The narrative was well-developed, including the jokes deriving from situational humour that had developed through story and character growth. The songs fit perfectly in that narrative, and there was a nice transition and unity between those dialogue and the musical components.
Brian Turner: Why, thank you.
Kyle Collins: I feel truly blessed for being one of the first to witness this masterpiece.
Brian Turner: Kyle, please…
Kyle Collins: I see Tony’s and a multimillion film deal on the horizon. Look out Shakespeare, there is a new Bard on the block!
Brian Turner: … Really?
Kyle Collins: No.
Doing my best to hold my composure, I faked a chortle. I went back to the basics. I asked him what his initial reaction was to the script.
Kyle Collins: I found myself chuckling at a few gags and the potential for humour therein. I was a little curious as to what the true climax of the piece was. The lack of an antagonist and protagonist made it difficult to determine where the build peaked. I left the script alone for a day or two to incubate and think on a few of these questions, then returned with a more solidified conception and was able to make the transition from impression to inspiration.
Brian Turner: And how was the transition from page to stage?
Kyle Collins: The process was very enjoyable. We experimented with a few different ideas and characterizations. Everything seems to have come together for the final product.
Brian Turner: The final product, opening night, how well was it received by the community?
Kyle Collins: Very well. The house was about half full, but was very responsive and engaged in the show. What surprised me was how many gags they laughed at which I did not foresee.
That’s because I’m hilarious. I plant jokes that even Jedi’s miss. Respect.
Kyle Collins: And you know, many responded to the overall show as one of the best that the Follies have put on.
Pff, of course they did, Kyle. I wrote it. Once again, respect.
Brian Turner: Your job is now complete. You’ll be leaving Rossland on the fourth. What will you miss most?
Kyle Collins: The people and the job itself. When a person is drawn to theatre and performance, if they are not involved, they feel hollow… like something is missing. It’s now time for me to go and leave it to the actors.
I thanked Kyle for the interview. I was ecstatic, Kyle appeared to be ecstatic, and my script was enjoyed by all. We said our goodbyes and began to part ways when I remembered one last question. An important one, one that needed to be asked. Am I going to like the final result?
Kyle Collins: I cannot be certain. After reading the script, I gained some insight as to what appeals to you artistically. So, I know you do not like good theatre.
What?
Kyle Collins: The show is now good, quite good. You may not like the changes and edits I made.
As I became red in the face, as I gritted my teeth, and reached for a nearby musket to demand what those changes were, Kyle leaped out of the window cackling, and took off in his X-Wing.
The Follies continues til August 21. Be sure to check it out.
THIS IS MY TEACHER