Testing, Testing.
By Jack Tullin

  

SCENE 1.

An empty stage. Apart from a table to the side where the stage manager sits, with computer and technical wizardry on another table.

 

STAGE M. Act one beginners call. This is your act one beginners call.

 

The words ‘Scene 1: The Opening’ type across the back of the stage. Stage manager looks pleased, gives a small laugh of ‘Yes, I did that’.

Man walks from side of stage with microphone slowly, positions microphone with stand center stage and stands behind it. He looks to Stage manager with a puzzled look.

Pause.

 

STAGE M. …Oh! LX 2, Go!

 

A spotlight comes up on man, which he smiles at then leans forward to microphone

 

MAN. Testing.

 

Delay – The word comes a moment later through the speakers. Pause.

 

MAN. Testing.

 

The word arrives late, again.           

Stage manager looks confused then plays with a couple of cables under desk before sitting back up and holding thumb up.

 

MAN. Testing.

 

The word comes at the right time.

 

MAN. Testing, testing. One, Two, Three.

 

He looks pleased, takes a moment, and then turns to Stage manager who presses a button.

That’s life by Frank Sinatra begins to play. As the man sings, the stage is rushed by 4 or so people setting up two live feed cameras, connecting to two televisions at either side of the stage, a projector at the very back with a large projection screen in front for it to project onto, just behind the man. The audience sees everything being made before their eyes. The company finishes setting up the stage and leave as the song finishes.

 

On the projector – ‘Scene 2:…’