Observation Exercise : Klinger-Neal Theater
The place is a wide theatrical space. The walls are bricks painted in black. The light is very gloomy; there’s enough to see but the place holds an obscure environment. There’s around seven rows of seats divided by a central stairway that finishes on a stage. This stage has on it a two story set for the next theatrical production. There are two doors on the side of the proscenium walls: one leads to the costume shop and dress rooms, and the next one is an emergency exit.
The seats make all sorts of sound when sitting on them. They have a beige bottom and an old dark orange for the cushions. Two students discuss how to proceed with the painting on the right side of the stage (or stage left for theatrical people). The sound of music comes from the backstage: Green Day’s 21 Guns can be heard. There’s people drilling on the top of the set.
From the middle section of the seats the smell of fresh paint invades my senses. Combined with the interesting smell of wood and dust; the scent of the theater could not be more peculiar.
There’s a moment of quiet. And a familiar vibration comes form the floor; not a very strong one (but just enough to feel it when paying attention). A vibration created by the air conditioner located in the basement. A gigantic machine that makes horrible noises. These noises transform into a subtle hum when exiting the basement.
The place feels crowded with energy. People painting, drilling, screaming. A workshop day in Klinger-Neal theatre. A sense of excitement and nervousness can be felt from the middle section of the seats. It’s only two weeks until the next production begins. The atmosphere in the room could not be more intense.