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Sarah Huckson Sarah Huckson ·

*12 Days of White Christmas*

I’ll tell you who does NOT need a reminder that we’re 8 days until opening night, the superhero in this photo. No one is more aware of every single second that is ticking by than Candace Withers, the Stage Manager of The Musical Comedy Guild’s “White Christmas”. Truly there is nothing more underrated than the term “stage management”. That is to say, there is no adequate way to describe what this incredible individual is responsible for (but that won’t stop me from trying).

For all the enjoyment I get from extroversion and performing, I also really love some quiet observation and people-watching. I found myself focusing in on Candace and her role from the very beginning, during summer auditions which seem like a lifetime ago now. If you had any question, any concern, needed any confirmation about anything at all – you reached out to your stage manager. Everything has flowed through her, there isn’t a single aspect of this show that hasn’t been documented by her pencil.

The responsibility of this role is hard to even imagine – and she has organized the chaos beautifully. She knew who had to be where at all times – scheduling rehearsals by the scene and by the hour, answering hundreds of email, DMs, personal questions. Creating calendars and newsletters, taking every note about every detail of every moment of the show. Where do you stand? Candace knows. What time is your call? Candace knows. How many millilitres of “wine” should be in every glass on every table in the jazz club scene? Candace…well, you get the picture.

She has accomplished all of this with such poise and patience, it has been fascinating to watch. When I really stop to think about what her notebooks must look like it’s overwhelming. She is always quick to show gratitude to her right & left wing-women Kerrie & Betty who have also been instrumental in bringing this together. Truly her dedication to this production has been inspiring and it’s only fitting that we show our appreciation by filling every seat in the theatre Dec 4-7, so hurry now and get your tickets because we’ve (stage) managed to put together one amazing show!

If you want to get to know more inside scoop, more behind-the-scenes, and more of my thoughts on re-connecting with my theatre family – follow along on Instagram @huckstogive, with the Musical Comedy Guild on Facebook, and on SooToday’s new SPACES!

Dec 4, 2024 – Dec 7, 2024
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