Mann Show 2007

Check out MANN SHOW 2008!

2007-07-02T18:24:00.001-04:00

All new for 2007/2008.

NEW BLOG...Next Week!

2007-06-26T01:37:00.000-04:00

Get in your final posts, folks. Mann Show 2007 becomes a museum piece within a week, as Mann Show 2008 goes live.

It's back to school...FOR ME!

2007-06-24T11:38:00.000-04:00

Yep, I'm heading to college again. A grad school program actually.

I just arrived in Seattle, Washington, and am on my way via shuttle bus to Ellensburg where I begin a five-week theatre production course of study at Central Washington University (Notice the college's initials? "C-W-U." How could I have gone elsewhere? "Coach-White-University.".

I hope to learn lots of cool stuff and return to Mann with tons of fresh, exciting ideas. Which makes me wonder...what are your new, exciting ideas for next year?

Summer's here...LET'S GET TOGETHER!

2007-06-19T17:27:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, June 20 at Coffee Underground.

Meet up around 7:00, we'll check out Acoustic Seen's Songwriter's Open Mic night.

Apparently, our pal JORDAN PICKENS (remember the TREASURE ISLAND pre-show fella?) will be playing. Bring a friend—I'll bring Rhyd—it should be a blast.

Change for the good?

2007-06-07T12:19:00.000-04:00

What do you think?

Summer LACKlusters

2007-06-06T07:48:00.000-04:00

Is there a good film in theaters this summer?

All I hear about is how awful PIRATES III and SPIDERMAN III are. I saw SHREK THE THIRD...it was OK, I guess...nothing to get excited about, though.

OCEANS 13 looks good, and I've heard that KNOCKED UP is pretty great. MR. BROOKS? BUG? WAITRESS is supposedly really good, but it's not playing here yet...or is it?

What have you heard? What have you seen? Anything good?

Summer Writing

2007-05-28T15:13:00.000-04:00

Four rising seniors (Phillip Calvin, Ross Ovington, Michael Real, and Knox White) have been selected to serve on a writing team for next spring's production. This past weekend we started the process. Our goal is to have a finished draft of the as-yet-to-be-titled play by late September.

Please know that this is a highly unusual and ambitious plan for any high school. Writing a play is much more difficult than it looks. It requires good ideas, yes...but great discipline. I think our team will do well.

If you are interested in writing a play or film, I HIGHLY recommend that you join Script Frenzy. Starting June 1, thousands of people all across the world will embark on a one-month writing project: writing a full-length play or screenplay. By registering (FREE) at the site, you are privileged to terrific tips and tricks of the trade. (I'm planning to write a play with Script Frenzy this June, myself.)

MANN SHOW 2007 Awards!

2007-05-23T21:36:00.000-04:00

This year, MANN SHOW 2007 recognizes nine students for outstanding achievements in the arts.

"Rookie of the Year" is given to a freshman who exhibits exceptional talent in the theatre arts. This year's "Rookie of the Year" award goes to CATHERINE MARTIN.

Two students are recognized for their outstanding leadership abilities. Both were instrumental in making MANN SHOW 2007 a great success in its inaugural year. The MANN SHOW Student Leadership award is presented to juniors NICOLE SCHMIDT and KNOX WHITE.

Several Creative Excellence Awards are being presented this year. For outstanding achievement in the area of Film Criticism, MANN SHOW 2007 recognizes junior ROSS OVINGTON. As the "Most Valuable Player" in this year's Spring Production, MANN SHOW 2007 awards its MVP Award to graduating senior KATE WITOWSKI. Two very special Creative Excellence awards are being presented to students whose creative work was tireless as it was outstanding: JAY BRIDGEMAN for his work as Master Carpenter and lead actor in TREASURE ISLAND, and BRENNAN WEST for her work as Costume Designer and Stage Manager.

And finally, MANN SHOW 2007 presents two Career Achievement Awards. The first goes to graduating senior, TOMMY GREER; Career Achievement-ACTING; and the second goes to KYLE AMES; Career Achievement-TECHNICAL THEATRE.

Congratulations to these talented theatre students!

Send Off Our Seniors...WEDNESDAY

2007-05-18T20:47:00.000-04:00

Don't miss this chance to say goodbye and good luck to our graduating seniors.

Wednesday (5/23), immediately after school we'll have the very last MANN SHOW 2007 meeting of the year. Come to honor the Class of 2007, and leave with exciting news about MANN SHOW 2008.

Oh, and don't forget to bring your membership dues for 2008: $20 during the month of May. Next fall, MANN SHOW 2008 membership dues will be back to $25.

ORDERED YOU TREASURE ISLAND PRODUCTION POSTER YET?

Sounds like fun...

2007-05-10T19:26:00.000-04:00

Has anyone seen this play?

2007-05-09T21:59:00.000-04:00

Jedi vs. Confederate Artillery

2007-05-06T07:58:00.000-04:00

This weekend I took Whitaker (my son, age 9) and a couple of his friends to see live Star Wars characters at Richard's Comics on Laurens Road and a Civil War encampment/reenactment in Pendleton.

The Star Wars people were really amazing in a kind of geeky, endearing kind of way. These people are all members of a club, the "Carolina Garrison" of very serious, Star Wars lovers. Their costumes were mostly terrific--especially the two Jawa kids and both stormtroopers. Boba Fett was there, Darth Vader, a Tusken Raider, rebel soldier, various Jedi warriors, etc. The best moment had to be seeing Whit and his friends running around, playing with the Jawas. It was hilarious...certainly would have been my dream as a kid...playing with Jawas. Too cool.

The Civil War reenactors were also very cool...kind of redneck in a way, but equally devoted and serious about their costumes. They too, represent an upstate club of reenactors--both Union and Confederates. Most impressive was when they fired their cannon. Yeah...like an authentic, Civil War-era cannon. It was super-loud...shook the ground under your feet. These people had set up a whole bunch of tents on the grounds of this old plantation house right off Highway 88 in Pendleton. It was drizzling rain all day, but it didn't dampen their spirits. The people stayed "in character" the whole time. A group of rebels asked the kids if they wanted to join the army. When Whit said no...that he wanted to join up with the Federal troops, this woman asked for a musket and aimed it at him. He ran off screaming. Great, great stuff.

So, of course, I spent the day comparing these two very different, yet very similar encounters. Both represent a strange degree of devotion...lifestyle choices that are, frankly, a bit geeky. Yet both also reflect a kind of theatre that is undeniable compelling. From childhood Halloween costumes to high school plays to jobs that require specific uniforms...people--all people--like to play dress-up. We like to put on the clothes of our heroes (I dressed a USC football player several years ago when I was making BRAGGING RITES. It was a thrill.).

What does this mean? Why are people like this? How should this knowledge affect what we do at J.L. Mann as theatre artists?

MANN SHOW May

2007-04-29T08:50:00.000-04:00

Apr. 30 MANN SHOW Membership Meeting (after school, Auditorium)

Apr. 30-May 2 Film Criticism METROPOLITAN

May 1 Concert Choir Musical Revue (7 PM, Auditorium, FREE)

May 3 Student Art Exhibit at SunTrust Bank (6 PM, reception at bank)

May 4 BAD DATES at The Warehouse Theatre (8 PM, opening night, $10)

May 7-9 Film Criticism THE SEARCHERS

May 7 MANN SHOW Leadership Team Meeting (6 PM, Pizza House, Fountain Inn)

May 11 TRANSLATIONS at The Playhouse (8 PM, Furman University, $8)

May 14-16 Film Criticism CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON

May 20 COACH WHITE TURNS 37!

May 21-25 Film Criticism NIGHT ON EARTH

May 23 FINAL MANN SHOW 2007 Membership Meeting (after school, Auditorium)

May 23 J.L. Mann Student Awards Event (7 PM, Expo Center)

May 29 Film Criticism STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL (TBD)

OK...how about you juniors?

2007-04-21T19:31:00.000-04:00

Since no one seems to have much to say about the seniors, how about next year's seniors?

What are your expectations for your final year at J.L. Mann?

Senior Memories

2007-04-15T21:04:00.000-04:00

Let's go ahead and start remembering our seniors.

I think it'd be cool if we could start collecting stories here on the blog about MANN SHOW 2007 graduates.

So...if you have any stories--suitable for publication--about any of our graduating 12th graders.

Great...it's back to school.

2007-04-07T22:08:00.000-04:00

I don't want to go back, either.

I'd rather just do the play and pack up for the year.

Come on, you guys...encourage me! Make me want to give it my all for another month and a half.

Spring Break Assignment

2007-03-31T19:59:00.000-04:00

Look around--no school to distract you--what do you see?

Anything?

Most teenagers, strike that, most people, rarely see anything new in their day-to-day lives. After a while everything blurs together into an amorphous blob called "My Life." Nothing distinctive, nothing surprising, nothing new to see...or experience. Such people think of their own lives as "boring." And why wouldn't they? It's all a greige (grey + beige) blur. Bland. Dull.

So...

You've got a week away from your "normal" life. Why not try something, anything, new.

Open your eyes...what do you see?

Are you ready for this?

2007-03-27T23:04:00.000-04:00

Who's taking a Drama class next year?

2007-03-26T20:50:00.000-04:00

I want to know: who's taking Drama next year?

State your name, next year grade, and which class you've signed up for. Also...tell me what you're looking forward to next year. This is your chance to help create the class you'll be taking with me next year. Let me know what you think!

CITIZEN KANE...next week!

2007-03-16T01:24:00.000-04:00

Orson Welles' 1941 "metaphysical detective story" CITIZEN KANE has been consistently voted the very best film ever made in the Sight and Sound poll of film critics in each of the last five polls starting with the 1962 poll (the survey is carried out once every ten years). Influential critic Roger Ebert says that "The Sight and Sound poll is generally considered the most authoritative of all 'best film' lists". He also considers KANE the best film ever.

The film--Welles' directorial debut--is also listed as the greatest American film ever by the American Film Institute.

The central story of the film is told principally through flashbacks, following a reporter as he seeks to find what Kane meant by his dying word: "Rosebud." The journalist's mission of retrieving the meaning of Kane's final word leads him in the end to conclude that a man's life cannot be summed up in one word, and (as he picks up pieces of a jigsaw puzzle) that Rosebud is a "missing piece" in his life...in effect, the movie is made up of fragments of Kane's life, shown in non-chronological order, for the viewer to put together.

So get ready...you're about to see CITIZEN KANE for the first time. You'll never forget it!

Friday Night at The Playhouse

2007-03-13T19:24:00.000-04:00

See JIM DAVID at Furman Friday night!

Jim is a 1975 graduate of the Furman University Drama department. Since leaving Furman he has been a stand-up comic, appearing all over the world, in comedy clubs, on television, on stage and on Broadway.

Jim has appeared in a Broadway musical and done lots of TV spots like Colin Quinn's TOUGH CROWD as well as his own, frequently replayed, half hour special, both on Comedy Central. He has also appeared on ABC's THE VIEW, Comedy Central's COMIC CABANA, NEW JOKE CITY with Robert Klein, NBC COMEDY SHOWCASE with Louie Anderson, A&E's CAROLINE'S and EVENING AT THE IMPROV, MTV 1/2 HOUR COMEDY HOUR, VH1's FOOLS FOR LOVE, SHOWTIME COMEDY CLUB NETWORK, DATELINE NBC, STAR SEARCH, LAST CALL, SPOTLIGHT CAFE, USA LIVE, and others.

He performed on Comedy Central's FRIARS CLUB ROAST OF ROB REINER and hosted the backstage interviews of Comedy Central's FRIARS CLUB ROAST OF HUGH HEFNER. A headliner across the world, he can be heard on his CDs, EAT HERE AND GET GAS (2000) and LIVE FROM JIMVILLE (2003).

SOUTH PATHETIC is Jim's one man comedy show being performed in New York and around the country. Jim had always wanted to try a one-man theatrical piece ala Eric Bogosian, Lily Tomlin, John Leguizamo, as well as to attempt a style of serious comedy that only can be done in a theater. Now that piece is at last a reality.

It tells the story of how Jim, in a career crisis, accepts a job directing a play at the worst community theater in the South. There he meets many characters at various crisis points in their own lives who are trying their hand at small town show biz. It is a piece about starting over, surviving, the and the need for arts in even the smallest community.

There will be only three performances: this Friday at 8, Saturday at 8 and 10:30.

Senior Separation

2007-03-06T22:59:00.000-05:00

It's happening.

Our seniors are starting to move on...drift past high school and into their post-graduate lives.

It's a natural progression...one only a high school senior can understand.

For those of us left behind (teachers and underclassmen), it's kind of sad. As you guys move on, we're already thinking of what it will be like when you're gone...we already miss you.

So. Seniors. I want to hear from you. What does it feel like to be staring down your last three months as a public school student? Are you sad? Happy? Excited? Scared?

(And more importantly...do you promise to come visit us when you're gone...stay in touch?)

Beware the Ides of MARCH!

2007-02-27T21:33:00.000-05:00

Mar. 1 Professional film editor JETER RHODES visits Film Criticism to discuss, TRIUMPH OF THE WILL.

Mar. 2 Professional actor, DEAN POYNOR visits drama classes.

Mar. 5-7 Film Criticism BOWLING FOR COLUMBINE

Mar. 12 MANN SHOW Leadership Team Meeting

Mar. 12-14 Film Criticism SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

Mar. 19 MANN SHOW Membership Meeting

Mar. 19-21 Film Criticism CITIZEN KANE

Mar. 25 CAESAR at The Warehouse Theatre, 3:00 PM

Mar. 26-28 Film Criticism OH BROTHER WHERE ART THOU?

Please keep in mind that I've never done this before.

2007-02-20T23:14:00.000-05:00

Advanced drama students are writing scenes based on their own improvisations...scenes that they will act out starting tomorrow.

Yeah, well...the scenes pretty much suck.

It's my fault. Bad project, actually. Just can't do a proper playwriting project with a class of thirty or more. Or I guess I should say that I've not figured out a way to handle playwriting in the class...help students overcome skit-writing.

This is one of those moments when, as a teacher, you just kind of want it ll back: the class time, the assignment...your old job.

No, its really not that bad. Still...I can do better. And will.

We've made news!

2007-02-16T07:03:00.000-05:00

Check out this story from Wednesday's Greenville News.

People are starting to notice MANN SHOW 2007. (Just wait until they hear about Treasure Island!)

Be sure you link to the "Story Chat" feature and add your comments!

Reid Cox had coffee with Renee Zellweger!

2007-02-11T19:49:00.000-05:00

Reid!

Is this true?

TELL US ABOUT IT!

(Did you tell her about TREASURE ISLAND?)

MANN SHOW February

2007-02-04T21:10:00.000-05:00

Feb. 5-6 Film Criticism: DR. STRANGELOVE

Feb. 6 JAMES HOLBROOK visits Advanced Drama

Feb. 8 ANN HICKS visits Advanced Drama

Feb. 10 TREASURE ISLAND Work Day [Noon-4 PM]

Feb. 11 MANN SHOW Leadership Team Meeting [2-3 PM]

Feb. 12-14 Film Criticism: UNBREAKABLE

Feb. 13 THE SHAPE OF THINGS at Furman University’s Playhouse

Feb. 14 Coach White featured in “City People” The Greenville News

Feb. 17 TREASURE ISLAND Work Day [1-4 PM]

Feb. 20-21 Film Criticism: GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES [image above]

Feb. 25 TREASURE ISLAND Work Day [1-4 PM]

Feb. 26 MANN SHOW Membership Meeting after school

Feb. 26-28 Film Criticism: TRIUMPH OF THE WILL

In Film Criticism this week! RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK

2007-01-28T21:21:00.000-05:00

1. RAIDERS was mostly filmed inTunisia, which stood in for Egypt.

2. The movie was also filmed at Elstree Studios in England for scenes involving the Well of Souls, opening interiors and Marion's tavern.

3. The opening exteriors were filmed in Kauai, Hawaii, and exteriors set in Washington D.C. were filmed outside of San Francisco's City Hall.

4. The University of the Pacific stands in for (the unnamed) Marshall College where Jones works, and his home exteriors were filmed in the city of San Rafael, California.

5. Spielberg managed to shoot the film in only 73 days, wrapping under schedule.

6. The scene where Indiana Jones shoots the sword-wielding assassin in the market was improvised on the set. Harrison Ford had been suffering from dysentery and exhaustion due to the extreme heat of Tunisia during filming. As originally planned, the scene was elaborately choreographed, with Jones facing the expert swordsman and trying to defeat him with just his whip. Some footage of the planned fight was shot (and was seen in at least one of the movie's trailers) but the filming was proving to be very tedious, both for Ford and the crew, and at some point Ford had had enough. Reportedly, he said something to Spielberg along the lines of, "Why don't we just shoot the sucker?" Spielberg liked the idea, scrapped the rest of the fight scene, and filmed the brief sequence of the shooting that appears in the movie.

7. The scene in which Jones threatens Belloq with a rocket-propelled grenade was shot in the same Tunisian canyon where George Lucas shot a scene involving Tusken Raiders attacking Luke Skywalker in his film, STAR WARS (1977).

8. The U-boat scenes were shot at La Rochelle, both outside the harbour and inside the U-boat bunkers there, built by the Germans in 1942. Filming was done here due to the need to obtain a U-boat to film with — the film "borrowed" the U-boat that was being prepared for filming DAS BOOT.

9. During the Well of Souls scene, when Indiana stares down the cobra, the snake's reflection is visible in the glass which was placed to prevent the cobra from actually harming any of the actors (the reflection was digitally removed for the 2003 DVD release).

10. Famously when 6000 snakes were bought on set, Spielberg still felt there were not enough, so crew members cut up plastic tubes and placed them carefully between live snakes. During Elstree filming, Harrison Ford also had to outrun the boulder 10 times, and Alfred Molina had to endure 100 spiders. Whilst all the snakes were fine, one spider fell and died - as a result the movie does not have a 'No Animals Were Harmed in the Making of this Production' notification.

11. There were three stunt doubles for Harrison Ford, the primary one being British born stunt man Vic Armstrong, who reportedly resembled Ford to the degree that people off camera often mistook him for the real Ford. But Ford fought to do many of the fights and stunts himself, arguing there would not be much else for him to do if he was not in the thick of it.

12. The Washington D.C. exterior was a pick-up (added in after main filming), as the film was originally written to end without any resolution of Indy's relationship to Marion. The brief footage showing the activity on a D.C. street (with the Washington Monument prominently in the background) was actually "borrowed" from the 1975 disaster film THE HINDENBURG.

Sounds like fun.

2007-01-23T21:24:00.000-05:00

You might want to check out The Warehouse Theatre's late night On the Edge Series.

The Warehouse's late night program offers quirky and inventive theatre--from short-form comedy improv by the Distracted Globe, to scripted one-act plays.

The Distracted Globe presents "Suddenly Angst-Ridden Modern Theatre" following performances of the play "Frozen" on January 26 and 27 at 10:30 PM.

This is some of the best short-form improvisational comedy you will see in the Upstate--and a great retort to the heavy drama currently on the theatre's mainstage.

MUST SEE FILM #71: The Purple Rose of Cairo

2007-01-20T10:57:00.000-05:00

It's still my all-time favorite movie.

An unforgettable story--a film within a film come to life--flawless screenplay, perfect acting all-around (Mia Farrow and Jeff Daniels were never better), and a truly heartbreaking ending.

I was disappointed that so many Film Criticism students turned on this movie--primarily for it's ending. Though I understand why: this isn't the kind of film most of us have seen before.

Woody Allen's Fellini-influence is evident throughout, and perhaps more seamlessly integrated than in his other films. ROSE becomes a wistful paean to Hollywood tempered by a mature understanding of life and art.

Rent it today: THE PURPLE ROSE OF CAIRO. Proof that there were great American films made in the 1980s.

"Oh, new Drama students..."

2007-01-16T18:42:00.000-05:00

Welcome to my world.

A quick review...

Last July I introduced myself and our study of theatre to my students. I suggest that you click here for a quick review.

We're producing a play called TREASURE ISLAND right now. Learn more about it here.

I am a pretty enthusiastic, intense guy. I get very passionate about my students, and nothing pisses me off more than their apathy. Energy, noise, exuberance, even obnoxiousness I can work with. But "who cares?" That makes me crazy.

You guys are going to experience a very different kind of class when you're with me this spring. It will be fun, but extremely challenging. Some students will think I'm a total hard ass. Others will think I'm easy. As long as everyone respects each other, we'll get along fine.

Oh, and how about this for secret (re: web-only) extra credit? Any student who sketches a picture of Charlie Brown (my favorite comic character) on the top of his/her next quiz gets five extra points.

Congratulations to the Cast of TREASURE ISLAND!

2007-01-10T22:11:00.000-05:00

My son wants to know...

2007-01-07T08:10:00.000-05:00

With one semester down (exams this week!), my son Whitaker wants to know what you think of his Dad's classes.

Advanced Drama, Film Criticism, Introduction to Drama, and Speech I--these are the classes...even MANN SHOW 2007...how would Coach White do on his first semester exam?

What things do you like? What things can't you stand? Is there anything I can do to improve your experiences in my class? What must I simply keep doing...again and again?

I'll post every response and try to address each, just keep it clean...I'm doing this for my eight year-old son.

Happy New Year, MANN SHOW!

2006-12-30T12:02:00.000-05:00

January marks an important transition for MANN SHOW 2007: production has begun on TREASURE ISLAND! Time to focus on making theatre, rather than watching it.

Jan. 3-12 Film Criticism. SOME LIKE IT HOT

Jan. 4 AUDITIONS. Mann Show members only. 6-8 PM.

Jan. 5 AUDITIONS. Mann Show members only. 4-6 PM.

Jan. 8 AUDITIONS. Schoolwide. 4-6 PM.

Jan. 9 AUDITIONS. Schoolwide. 6-8 PM.

Jan. 10 Callbacks. 4-7 PM.

Jan. 11 CAST ANNOUNCED. Midnight online, 8:00 AM posted on the stage door, 400 Hall.

Jan. 13 First Read-Through. 10 AM - 2 PM.

Jan. 16 Cast Conditioning Orientation. 10 AM - Noon.

Jan. 17-18 Film Criticism. THE PURPLE ROSE OF CAIRO

Jan. 20 Set Building. 1-4 PM.

Jan. 22-24 Film Criticism. METROPOLIS

Jan. 27 Cast Vocal Rehearsal. 10-11:30 AM.

Jan. 29-31 Film Criticism. RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK

Jan. 31 MANN SHOW 2007 Membership Meeting. 3:45 in the Auditorium.

Holiday Greetings

2006-12-21T22:52:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of my favorite band: U2.

One week's growth.

2006-12-20T20:36:00.000-05:00

In anticipation of the April 13, 2007 opening of Mann Show 2007's TREASURE ISLAND, male cast members will not be allowed to cut their hair or shave.

The director has decided to support his soon-to-be-named cast by forgoing haircuts and shaves until opening night.

Every couple of weeks, I will update the blog with photos of my...er, progress.

Let's do THIS over the holidays...

2006-12-19T23:32:00.001-05:00

Any takers?

MANN SHOW 2007: Treasure Island

2006-12-13T20:46:00.000-05:00

So...what do you think of our selection?

Looking forward to the show? Disappointed? Would you have preferred something else?

What roles interest you the most? What roles interest you the least?

(Oh, and what do you think of Brennan's costume renderings?)

I want to know what you think!

Everybody Comes to Rick’s

2006-12-07T16:34:00.000-05:00

By Dean Schuster, leader of the December 14th film discussion of CASABLANCA.

You’re about to see CASABLANCA, likely for the first time, and I am jealous. CASABLANCA is a film that, for me, endures despite repeated viewings. I unapologetically love this film. Something in me wishes I could experience it again for the first time. And so I am jealous of you.

This film was made in 1942, in the very early stages of World War II when Allied victory was not yet certain. It’s black and white, and it consists primarily of dialogue centered on a simple plot. This may not seem like a recipe for a film you’ll love. But I beg to differ. If you have a pulse, you’ll find something to appreciate about it, possibly even to treasure. I dare you to hate it.

When you watch the film, listen closely for the dialogue, follow the characters closely, and pay attention to what the film is saying. We’ll start our discussion with a simple question: “What kind of film is this?”

"Good day, Mr. Kubrick..."

2006-12-03T21:11:00.000-05:00

In 1984, Stanley Kubrick placed ads throughout the United States requesting that aspiring young actors send in audition tapes for his film, FULL METAL JACKET.

This is one of them.

Heeeres...DECEMBER!

2006-11-30T22:46:00.000-05:00

December 1. See The Mannuscript today! (A1 article by Knox White, photo by Kyle Ames.)

December 3. MANN SHOW 2007 members see INSPECTING CAROL at The Warehouse Theatre Sunday afternoon at 3:00 PM. Talk-back to follow.

December 4-6. Film Criticism: BAMBI

December 8. Independent filmmaker JEFF SUMEREL visits Film Criticism today!

December 10. Students see the Centre Stage production of GREETINGS at 3:00 PM Sunday afternoon. Talk-back to follow.

December 11-14. Film Criticism: CASABLANCA

December 13. MANN SHOW 2007 unveils the title of its Spring Production immediately after school, at a press conference in the Auditorium. Production design and casting details will be revealed at this time, as well as a complete production schedule. Scenic construction will begin at the conclusion of the announcement.

December 14. Film Criticism students have a guest lecturer: award-winning interactive design guru Dean Schuster discusses the film, CASABLANCA.

December 18 and 19. Film Criticism: A TRIP TO THE MOON

December 21 – January 2. Winter Break!

Have I mentioned that I like ambitious theatre?

2006-11-29T06:39:00.000-05:00

Anybody know this kid?

We need him at Mann.

Too bad, so Jad...

2006-11-26T14:28:00.000-05:00

31-28.

Carolina beats Clemson. Finally.

I found watching this game to be exceedingly painful. My team (the USC Gamecocks) outplayed Clemson statistically, but trailed most of the game. We kept racking up yardage and great defensive stands, but Clemson kept making big plays...and scoring.

As we build a drama program here at J.L. Mann, I want you to ignore the "big plays" and focus on sound fundamentals: solid, truthful acting; smart, imaginative ideas; steady, disciplined stage management...attention to details.

Enjoy the "big plays," but move back to fundamentals quickly. For every Show of Plenty, there are Auditorium work days, Production Team meetings, and Drama class scenes to focus on.

There will be a payoff at the end. We are going to win! We will walk away from a Spring Production with a real Drama program...one of the very best in South Carolina.

Stuck in a moment that you can't get out of.

2006-11-21T20:02:00.000-05:00

This year I am thankful that I'm no longer working for corporations.

Believe it or not, kids...things like this really do happen.

Bragging Rites

2006-11-19T11:26:00.000-05:00

I will freely acknowledge that it is not fashionable for drama teachers to be as obsessed with college football as I am.

Moreover, calling oneself a commited Gamecock fan in the pressence of theatre artists is akin to admitting you are a political conservative (sheesh, I'm both!).

BUT...hiding it from you, my SHOW OF MANN, would be a damn lie. I cannot bring myself to keep you from the truth.

As you watch the film I produced this week at school (BRAGGING RITES: THE CAROLINA-CLEMSON RIVALRY), I hope you will cut me some slack. Let me have my college football fandom...maybe even consider the biggest sports rivalry in our state in a whole new way, yourself.

Drama is everywhere, you know...there isn't a more obvious theater than Death Valley, this Saturday. At high noon.

Go Cocks!

A veritable Cornucopia of Fun!

2006-11-17T06:03:00.000-05:00

As we get set to open the first-ever J.L. Mann student variety show--THE SHOW OF PLENTY--I want to recognize five very important students.

KYLE AMES, GENNA "DIGGY" BUCKNER, DANIEL COOPER, BRENNAN WEST, and KATE WITOWSKI--the heart and soul of our Production Team for MANN SHOW 2007.

There are no other students at Mann I trust more than these. Each is as smart, dedicated, and professional as any high school drama student I've ever met (myself in high school included). If you want to know what the future of J.L. Mann drama looks like, just spend a few moments with these guys. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect collection of student colleagues.

I hope you see THE SHOW OF PLENTY tonight. If you do, let me know what you think!

(Oh yeah, JAY BRIDGEMAN, MICHAEL JENKINS, DYLAN MARLER, BETHANY WILLIAMS, and a some folks who don't go to Mann are also on the Production Team. But they just recently joined, so I don't know them as well as my Fab Five.)

Yes. THIS is theatre.

2006-11-05T11:27:00.000-05:00

Wow.

Introducing...MANN SHOW November!

2006-10-31T19:50:00.000-05:00

November 1 (Wed). SHOW OF PLENTY performers announced. Each must initial his/her name on the list posted on the stage door (400 Hall) to accept their spot.

November 3 (Fri). MANN SHOW Leadership Team Meeting immediately after school in the Auditorium.

November 4 (Sat). MANN SHOW Work Day, 10 AM - 2 PM in the Auditorium.

Film Criticism: REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE, November 6-13.

November 6 (Mon). SHOW PLENTY Production meeting. Immediately after school in the Auditorium.

November 7 (Tue). NO SCHOOL! 18 and older, vote!

November 8 (Wed). MANN SHOW Membership Meeting immediately after school in the Auditorium.

November 9 (Thu). PRODUCTION TEAM Meeting immediately after school in the Auditorium.

November 10 (Fri). THE WIZARD OF OZ at Woodmont High School, 7:00 PM.

November 12 (Sun). See Coach White in the Furman Theatre production of AN EVENING WITH IVES at The Playhouse, at 3:00 PM.

November 13 (Mon). MANN SHOW 2007 Members have been invited to attend a dress rehearsal of Chekhov’s THE SEAGULL at North Greenville University, 7:00 PM.

November 13-17. Canned goods accepted in the Auditorium. Three cans donated receives one admission to the SHOW OF PLENTY.

Film Criticism: RUNNING ON EMPTY, November 14-20.

November 15 (Wed). SHOW OF PLENTY Technical Rehearsal. 4-6 PM in the Auditorium. All crew must attend.

November 16 (Thu). SHOW OF PLENTY Dress Rehearsal. 4-6 in the Auditorium. All crew and cast must attend.

November 17 (Fri). The first-ever SHOW OF PLENTY student variety show takes place at 7:00 PM in the J.L. Mann Auditorium. A collaboration of the entire J.L. Mann Fine Arts team, the show will serve as a catalyst to collect canned foods. Admission cost is three cans of food.

November 18 (Sat). THE CRUCIBLE at Blue Ridge High School, 7:00 PM.

Also in November…local actor Tiffany Nave plans to stop by and add her name to the growing list of artists-in-residence who have shared their experiences in the theatre and signed the Auditorium stage.

Film Criticism: THE SEVENTH SEAL, November 27 – December 1.

New York City Summer 2007?

2006-10-28T09:07:00.000-04:00

O.K.

Just a question for your feedback.

If MANN SHOW 2007 sponsored a four or five day trip to New York City this summer...a journey into the world of New York theatre (and possibly film)...a trip that might cost each student upwards of $1,200...would you be interested in going?

We've been invited to tag along with a group of students from my high school in Columbia (Irmo) as they take a theatre tour of New York. I've gone with the Irmo group before. It's an amazing trip. But it's expensive.

Again, just taking a survey right now: are you interested in a New York Trip this year?

In Todd We Trust

2006-10-23T23:25:00.000-04:00

Thanks a million to Todd, Janet, and Jennifer (from Todd Inc. Hair Studio on Washington Street) for giving us an unforgettable last Thursday AM in the Auditorium.

Todd generously cut five heads in a circus/rock show atmosphere that demonstrated how hair design may be used to illuminate character. I know that there were at least 150 students there--most of whom weren't even drama students!

Guys, it's cool people like Todd and Janet that remind me why I do what I do: I want to see you guys living fascinating lives some day...lives filled with imagination, possibility, and great hair.

Know this: there are more super-cool guests coming to the Auditorium stage! Stay tuned...

Drama Scab Wanted

2006-10-15T07:14:00.000-04:00

Every four to six weeks (an average) I skip a day of school and go off to some gathering of artists and/or teachers to learn how to be a better drama teacher. Sometimes I speak, sometimes I listen, but everytime I feel a little sad that I'm missing my students at school. I don't like knowing that you guys are there doing stuff and I'm missing it.

Not unlike an ex-boyfriend who is creepily obsessed with you.

This Monday (tomorrow) I will be in Camden speaking to the arts team at a Kershaw county school district in-service training day. My topic will be how to build business partneships and promote your arts program in the community. As such, I'm going to be missing you guys.

Here's my question: what qualities should I be looking for in a substitute teacher when I am gone?

Yes, I know you would enjoy having a completely blithering idiot to run roughshod over. But that is not the MANN SHOW way. Each day counts. We haven't time to waste. I need to find teachers who can both manage the classroom and imaginatively contribute to the on-going discussion. I need a sub (or subs) that I can count on to do something when I am gone.

I am open to your suggestions; both for qualities I should look for and actual suggestions.

OBEY THE BLOG!

2006-10-12T22:39:00.000-04:00

Watch this video over and over. At least a dozen times...back to back.

Now...do my bidding, you mindless meat puppet!

How To Dismantle a Messianic Rock Star

2006-10-07T09:07:00.000-04:00

MANN SHOW 2007 members are invited to attend Coach White's Thursday night presentation at Coffee Underground.

How to Dismantle a Messianic Rock Star begins at 7:00 PM, Thursday, October 12 in the theater at Coffee Underground. Coach White will lead a discussion of U2 frontman, Bono; his music, message, and impact. There is no fee for this event.

The event is sponsored by Greenville's The Caleb Group, an organization that presents lectures, discussions, and events about arts and literature throughout the year.

The Caleb Group's frontman, Johnny Price, recently spoke to Film Criticism students at J.L. Mann about the film, BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID.

MANN SHOW Presents October!

2006-09-30T06:00:00.000-04:00

1. Students AND TEACHERS may still become members of Mann Show 2007 during the month of October. Annual membership dues are $25 and include numerous benefits. Please bring your payment to Coach White in the Auditorium.

2. Film Criticism: TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, October 2-4.

3. Film Criticism: LA STRADA, October 9-11.

4. Coach White presents a one-time lecture for The Caleb Group on Thursday evening, October 12 at Coffee Underground. "BONO: How to Dismantle a Messianic Rock Star" starts at 7:30 PM.

5. Film Criticism: RUN LOLA RUN, October 16-18.

6. October 18: MANN SHOW Membership Meeting immediately after school in the Auditorium.

7. Advanced Drama students studying hair and makeup design for the theatre will be visited by a local hair stylist on October 19. Todd Burns (of Todd, Inc. on Washington Street) will select two students for extreme hair makeovers, and then cut their hair right then and there on stage!

8. NO SCHOOL! October 20-23.

9. THE BATTLE OF SHALLOWFORD at Oconee Community Theatre, Saturday, October 21.

10. Film Criticism: THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN, October 24-25.

11. Furman Theatre Arts Professor Rhett Bryson will discuss James Whale's THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN with Film Criticism students, Thursday, October 26.

12. MANN SHOW 2007 will sponsor “Gothic Horror Thursday” October 26 in conjunction with the Film Criticism class screening of James Whale’s THE BRIDE OF FRANKENSTEIN. J.L. Mann students are encouraged to dress in a horrifically romantic fashion.

13. The Upstate Shakespeare production of THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW, Friday night, October 27 at Falls Park.

14. ROUGH CROSSING at The Warehouse Theatre, Sunday afternoon, October 29.

What's your motivation?

2006-09-27T06:45:00.001-04:00

"The Method" or "method acting" was popularized by Lee Strasberg at The Actor's Studio and the Group Theatre in New York City in the 1940s and 50s.

The process was derived from Konstantin Stanislavski's quest for "theatrical truth"--discovered in his teachings, writings, and acting at the Moscow Art Theater.

Strasberg's students included many of America's most famous actors of the 20th century, including Paul Newman, Al Pacino, James Dean, Dustin Hoffman, Marilyn Monroe, Robert DeNiro and many others.

The key question Method Actors ask themselves as they work through a scene is this: What's my motivation? The theory being, if an actor knows why, he/she can play the who, what, and how.

So this is what I want to know from you: why are you drawn to the theatre? Why do you want to create in the theatre? Why do you want to see theatre?

What's your motivation?

Your Town

2006-09-20T23:39:00.000-04:00

I tell you guys what, I've really been digging the last couple of weeks in Advanced Drama (1st and 6th periods).

We've been reading and working through Thornton Wilder's play OUR TOWN. And it's been really great. Great to encounter this terrific play again (OT: OUR TOWN was an AWESOME documentary)...even better to use some of Wilder's famous scenes to step into acting.

Please know that I am going to be tough on you as actors. I expect a lot and I am willing to teach you a lot about acting. But it may--some days at least--be painful. Irritating. It may seem that you never quite impress me enough, or that I'm not really satisfied with your efforts.

Just hang in there. I am on your side. I want to see you succeed like never before.

Phantom of the Auditorium?

2006-09-16T21:21:00.000-04:00

A recent post on this blog by a supposed J.L. Mann alum has me intrigued:

"I am a J.L.Mann graduate, and drama student, from so many years ago you'll likely consider me obsolete. However, I assure you, my vast experiences would astound you. Or perhaps more accurately - be slightly interesting to you.

"Nevertheless, I have a question that directly relates to you and your kindred spirits: have any of you yet encountered the Ghost of Mann Theatre? Yes...the ghost."

I, for one, want to know more. Has anyone heard of this before? And to our spooky alum, please tell us more.

Mann-ly Artists Unite!

2006-09-11T23:33:00.000-04:00

Men of Mann...I need your help.

I will be speaking to a group of arts teachers Friday in Columbia at a conference sponsored by a group called the South Carolina Alliance for Arts Education. My topic is "How to Integrate BOYS Into the Arts."

Basically, I'm going to be giving these folks some friendly tips on how they might make their dance, drama, music, or visual arts classes more appealing for guys. Studies show that girls dominate arts education classes in high schools across the country. Whereas I'm really glad for all these artistic ladies, I feel for my brothers!

Guys need arts, too. They help us learn to express our creativity, how to work with others under stressful circumstances, connect with our feelings and emotions...they can even help us score chicks!

So. What are your ideas? What would you tell these arts teachers? How can they make their programs more appealing to guys?

"It don't matter if it's black and white."

2006-09-09T17:23:00.000-04:00

I recently graded quizzes from last week's Film Criticism class (3rd Period). The film we had watched that week was Charles Chaplin's CITY LIGHTS (1931).

I was stunned by the number of my students who revealed their general distaste for movies shot on black and white film.

Apparently, many (if not most) teenagers think B&W films are "boring," "old fashioned," or otherwise not appealing.

Are you guys kidding?

There are far more dull/boring/old fashioned color movies than B&W, given the fact that so many more color movies have been made than B&W. That said, films shot on B&W since color became the film standard (late 1940s, early 50s), are almost all Top Ten films of their year, if not decade. When a modern director chooses B&W, that generally indicates that the director is ambitious. Another sure sign that a movie will not suck.

Now. One more thing on B&W. To immediately tune out a black and white film--modern or classic--simply because it lacks pigment, is foolish. It indicates a shallowness of thought that bodes well for vapidity, triteness...a mind gravely lacking intellectual gavitas.

Do you reject the U.S. Consitution because of its difficult, old-timey language? Would you pass on a great Italian wine because you couldn't read the bottle? Would you not speak to a kid a school because he/she wore unfamiliar clothes? Or had a bad haircut? Or talked with a weird accent?

How about race? Do you avoid contact with people of different races simply because of the color of their skin?

How can anyone claim to be smart and alive, and out-of-hand tune out any black and white film?

MANN SHOW 2007 Leadership Team Selected

2006-09-07T06:28:00.000-04:00

These students were elected to leadership positions at Wednesday's membership meeting:

PRESIDENT Kyle Ames
PRESIDENT-ELECT Nicole Schmidt
SECRETARY Sally Haltiwanger
SENIOR REP. Sara Reynolds
JUNIOR REP. Knox White
SOPHOMORE REP. Kym Day
FRESHMAN REP. Martakius Dennis

Congratulations to each.

Stay tuned for an announcement about our next membership meeting.

Croc Hunter Steve Irwin Dead at 44

2006-09-04T15:49:00.000-04:00

You guys are starting to know me pretty well, now. You can probably guess that I feel sad that Steve Irwin died Monday shooting a new television program near the Great Barrier Reef.

Steve Irwin was unironically devoted to animals large and small. And he wanted desperately for you and I to join in his adventures. The man took risks, true. Some found his enthusiasm grating. Still, I can think of few performers (he was a performer, you know) so comfortable in their own skin...so unabashedly...sweetly...passionate about their work.

He will be missed.

Mann Show packs the house in SEPTEMBER!

2006-08-30T22:04:00.000-04:00

I'm planning to see these plays (on these days) during the month of September:

Want to come along?

CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF
at The Warehouse Theatre
Sunday, September 17, 3:00 PM
TICKETS: $15

EATEN ALIVE
at CentreStage
Friday, September 22, 8:00 PM
TICKETS: Free

INTO THE WOODS
at Greenville Little Theatre
Saturday, September 30, 8:00 PM
TICKETS: TBD

I'm not a real big musical theatre guy.

2006-08-26T13:09:00.000-04:00

BUT.

This...this video by a band called OK Go has got my attention.

This is what musical theatre at Mann will look like.

And along those lines. Does anyone mind if I take down the old show posters hanging in the auditorium? No disrespect intended, but Mann Theatre doesn't look like that anymore.

Hitch's REAR WINDOW

2006-08-23T21:07:00.000-04:00

For those of you not lucky enough to be in my third period Film Criticism class, run--don't walk--to Guidance and request a drop/add.

It's got to be the best class at Mann right now.

We just watched REAR WINDOW, a 1954 film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. It's not as flashy and effects-laden as most films are today. In fact, the few visual effects used in the film are pretty lame. But...the film itself...the writing, the acting, the directing...it's a masterpiece. And it still works. Ask anyone in Film Crit. That moment when Thorwald spies Jeff and Stella looking at him...wow. The whole class gasped. It was great.

So...this weekend if you're at the video store, check out REAR WINDOW. There's even a more recent version with Christopher Reeve, though I doubt it's as good as Hitchcock's.

2 days down. (178 to go.)

2006-08-19T09:56:00.000-04:00

It's would be easy, I think, for a teacher to lose his way...to begin to think that his job was about pleasing his principal, making friends with other teachers, getting lost in the rah-rah culture of a large, public high school.

I'm here for you.

If you ever get the impression that I am more interested in things other than teaching you, listening to you, or knowing you better, pull me aside and let me know.

I am pouring everything I have into building a place for us to create theatre...to learn and work together...to leave a legacy for future Mann students to live up to. Hold me to that. Keep me focused. And don't forget to commit yourself to learning, listening, and knowing me.

MANN SHOW 2007 UPDATE

People are already buzzing about our spring production. Last week I received a commitment from a professional graphic artist and illustrator to design the MANN SHOW 2007 graphic identity mark. Upon completion, I will be making unique MANN SHOW wearables available to interested students. Unlike any logo apparel you have ever seen, the MANN SHOW collection is certain to cause quite a stir on campus. So stay tuned...

Make sure you try the MANN SHOW 2007 links. I'll start updating them regularly in about a week.

How difficult should a high school drama class be?

2006-08-16T21:50:00.000-04:00

I'm thinking a whole lot about this the night before school starts...how rigorous, how tough I should be.

I mean, the goal is that you guys learn...not become frustrated. Then again, you guys (I generalize) have a reputation for being very lazy. Sometimes a tough teacher makes you focus...makes you think...makes you try.

And sometimes a hard teacher can totally discourage you.

So I've got to find the balance between hard and easy. Maybe I'll shoot for this: I'll set up the tests to favor those students who really try. If you're not lazy, if you want to learn, I'll make sure that our tests give you an opportunity to show me that you're learning, that you get it.

Does that make sense? Just try, OK? Don't be lazy.

What do you think?

EXTRA CREDIT: On your next test, write this actor's real name on the bottom of the first page. Got it? Their real name on the bottom of the first page. I WILL NOT MENTION THIS BONUS IN CLASS. IT'S ONLY FOR THOSE STUDENTS WHO READ MY BLOG.

"I love it when a plan comes together."

2006-08-13T14:33:00.000-04:00

RESPECT.

Keep it REAL, ENTHUSIASM, SELF-DISCIPLINE, be PREPARED, ENCOURAGE others, COURAGE, and finally, TEAMWORK.

These qualities make up what I believe to be the most important concept you can learn about the theatre: respect.

When I was a kid, my favorite show on television was THE A-TEAM. This show had it all: action, adventure, comedy, drama...Mr. T. I was especially drawn to the characters on the show. Hannibal was the leader. Smart, brave, cocky...always with an unlit cigar in his mouth. Face was the pretty boy. The best actor in the bunch. An even keel to balance Hannibal's temper. B.A. Mr. T. He was the bad ass. Tough, strong, mean when he had to be. B.A. hated to fly, but there's no one you'd rather have in a fight. Then there was "Howlin' Mad" Murdock. The wise fool. Comic relief. The guy on the team I most identified with. They always though he was crazy. We all knew better. He was a genius.

The A-Team was my dream team as a kid. And ever since then I've always wanted to be a part of team like that.

The theatre provides each of us the opportunity to be on a big-time "A" team. Respectful theatre people are team players. One of my main goals this year is that we form an incredible team for our spring production. Are you down with that? I hope you are. I'm casting my "A-Team" every day.

Real men wear zip-up cardigans.

2006-08-09T20:04:00.000-04:00

In THE WIZARD OF OZ (1939), the Cowardly Lion (played by Bert Lahr) gives a thrilling speech on a subject I believe is key to having respect:

"What makes a King out of a slave? Courage. What makes the flag on the mast to wave? Courage. What makes the elephant charge his tusk in the misty mist, or the dusky dusk? What makes the muskrat guard his musk? Courage. What makes the Sphinx the Seventh Wonder? Courage. What makes the dawn come up like thunder? Courage. What makes the Hottentots so hot? What puts the ape in ape-ricot? What have they got that I ain't got?"

His friends: "Courage!"

"You can say that again!"

Of course we all know that the Lion always had courage, he just never realized it as such.

Here's a video clip that gives a fairly odd example of a courageous man, being courageous. This guy was a major influence on my life growing up, and perhaps he was for you, too. As you watch the clip, notice how steady he is the whole time...how controlled...how respectful.

Seriously guys, this clip makes me tear-up everytime I see it.

Good man, Mr. Rogers...good man.

Critics All Wet on Shyamalan's WATER

2006-08-01T10:37:00.000-04:00

Like that headline? If I was a newspaper editor, my favorite part would be coming up with clever-sounding headlines.

Basically, I want to know what you thought of this highly unusual film from one America's most intriging directors, M. Night Shyamalan.

As you can guess from my headline, I liked the movie...or at least I didn't hate it as much as most film critics did. It was a very strange film...a clumsy film in many respects. But it was also an ambitious film, a film that tried very hard to be something special. This is not a cynical film, nor is M. Night a cynical filmmaker. I think that's why I liked it more than I hated it. M. Night is a "believer." You'll hear me say that word a lot this year. I may even ask you what you believe in. When I do, I'm trying to get at what you love...what you're passionate about.

M. Night is passionate--I think--about outsiders and misfits. He thinks that there are big, important things worth believing in. And he loves a great, mind-bending tale...and knows how to use the language of cinema to tell his stories.

He and I have a lot in common, I think.

How about you? What did you think of LADY IN THE WATER?

And what do you believe in?

Encouraged to Write

2006-07-27T20:34:00.000-04:00

My English teacher Dr. Fergusson sent a post card to my parents when I was a Junior at Irmo High School. In it, she said the last essay test I turned in contained some of the very best writing she'd ever read by a student--high school, college, or grad school.

Needless to say, that got my attention.

No one had ever told me I could write, let alone encouraged me in the pursuit. Dr. Fergusson did. And it changed my whole perspectve...on the world and myself.

Before I call myself a "teacher" or "Drama coach," you will hear me call myself, "writer." (Thanks, Dr. Fergusson.)

Respectful people are encouragers. They can't help it. They understand what it feels like to be encouraged and they want to see others feel the same. Respectful people don't let jealousy or pride get in the way of a compliment. Respectful people honestly encourage, and in return, recieve respect back.

MUST SEE FILM #37: The Elephant Man

2006-07-23T21:31:00.000-04:00

It plays like a child's fairy tale gone horribly, horribly wrong. This 1980 film by the master of innocence-lost, David Lynch, is a must-see for anyone who has ever felt left out or misunderstood.

You guys will soon learn that I am a big Anthony Hopkins fan. And I love this performance. It's the first truly great screen role of his career. His Dr. Treves is textured, subtle, totally likable and utterly dispicable, too.

And John Hurt as Merrick (aka Elephant Man) manages to pull of an amazing feat under all that makeup. He brings Merrick to life. Makes him human. At once repulses and attracts you. Be forewarned, he's creepy-looking. Hard to look at, actually. But stay with him. Notice Hurt's performance under that mask.

I saw John Hurt act in a one-act play at the Spoleto Festival in Charleston several years ago. He had just sold Harry Potter a wand as Mr. Ollivander in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. (He was in V for Vendetta most recently.) So he was pretty famous. But he wasn't too big to play the hell out of Andrei in Brian Friel's Afterplay. He was still working it--just as he did in The Elephant Man.

A lot of you guys will dig the whole David Lynch-weirdness thing. Others will see him as a total freak and would run from every Twin Peaks episode, screaming. Still, you should know his work. He's an important American filmmaker. The Elephant Man is a great place to start. If you find the film too creepy, follow with Lynch's The Straight Story. If you think that The Elephant Man is cheesy or not scary enough, I dare you to see Blue Velvet or Wild at Heart.

"Kick and thrash at the shark."

2006-07-21T07:21:00.000-04:00

One of my absolute favorite books is the US Army Survival Manual. It's a reprint of the Department of the Army's field manual about surviving the most unsurvivable of conditions.

Though there isn't a chapter on how to survive teaching high school drama, there are fascinating chapters on water procurement, wildlife for food, firebuilding, signaling, weather forecasting, even poisonous snakes. This is a must-have beach read, let me tell you.

Essentially, this book is the book of how to be prepared for the unexpected. They could have titled it, What to Expect When You Least Expect It. (But then, that would be an amazingly cool title...and I think the military prefers straightforward to clever.)

As we learn about respect this year, you will hear me talk about the fact that students, teachers, actors, designers must always come prepared; ready to work, ready to engage, good to go.

How do you prepare for a drama class? Prepare your body, first: don't show up hungry, be dressed for action, have a pencil in your hand and socks under your shoes. You must also prepare your mind: be ready to think, ask questions, consider and debate. Students who prepare their bodies and mind for class will excel. They will be ready for anything.

Which is good...because in this drama class, you should expect anything.

“Go ahead, make me self-disciplined!”

2006-07-18T22:31:00.000-04:00

Self-discipline. Yet another key to understanding and demonstrating respect. The most difficult, the least popular element of respect. Yet absolutely essential. Here’s why.

When you cannot control yourself, your actions, the words you say and when you say them...if you let bad habits, carelessness, laziness become you, you disrespect yourself. And when you disrespect yourself, it is impossible to respect others.

The professional theatre, the film and television industry, music, gaming, fashion, art, dance, et al...these pursuits require uncommon amounts of self-discipline. Actors, writers, directors, designers...each of them find ways to focus and commit to their jobs, to work tirelessly, to study and learn...to respect their craft and those who collaborate with them.

Clint Eastwood—Oscar-winning actor, producer, and director—says this: “Respect your efforts, respect yourself. Self-respect leads to self-discipline. When you have both firmly under your belt, that's real power."

I’m looking for students who are capable of bringing powerful performances to my stage here at J.L. Mann. Without question, it will be those individuals that demonstrate self-discipline—work hard, study, ask questions, rehearse-rehearse-rehearse, learn their lines, keep their bodies in performance shape—who earn the right to have the most challenging roles, the most exciting on-stage (or backstage!) opportunities.

I’m telling you guys, this respect stuff...it’s what I’m all about!

"If I only had a Nickel..."

2006-07-14T10:29:00.000-04:00

Enthusiasm. It's the part of respect that most people forget. Though respect is sometimes quiet, I think it's mostly jumping-up-and-down energetic. Respect is happy, joyful...not dour and bland.

Chris Thile (see picture, left) plays the mandolin like no one else on this planet. He's technically astounding...perfect, even. But when you see him play, it is his enthusiasm that makes him unforgettable. Chris has such a respect for his instrument, his music, his audience that he cannot help but play the strings off his mandolin.

You can hear Chris play with his band Nickel Creek (at the Peace Center, September 21) or solo. I saw him play Largo in L.A. a year ago. He came on--a surprise guest on Jon Brion's bill--and blew everyone away. I've also seen Nickel Creek play live. Chris was terrific then, too.

If you're wondering what kind of students I'm looking for...what sort of people I'm going to let carry Mann Show 2007...the kind of people who earn As in my class, look no further than Chris Thile. Match his enthusiasm (just come close), and you'll get no complaints from me.

"I is what I is, not what I ain't."

2006-07-13T10:03:00.000-04:00

One thing I keep hearing about teaching at Mann is how I have to be tough with the students early on. That they have no discipline. That they need more of a drill sergeant than a teacher. Frankly, it's a little intimidating because--though I am an actor--I really don't know how to fake being who I am.

I am a pretty enthusiastic, intense guy. I get very passionate about my students, and nothing pisses me off more than their apathy. Energy, noise, exuberance, even obnoxiousness I can work with. But "who cares?" That makes me crazy.

You guys are going to experience a very different kind of class when you're with me this fall. It will be fun, but extremely challenging. Some students will think I'm a total hard ass. Others will think I'm easy. As long as everyone respects each other, we'll get along fine.

Respect starts with KEEPING IT REAL. That means being yourself. Not faking, putting up a front...posing like you is what you obviously ain't.

So. Coach White. What I ain't? An easygoing, sweetheart of a drama teacher who can't wait to see you guys strut your stuff in SOUTH PACIFIC. What I is? Professional, passionate, in-your-face, hilarious, high-energy, smarter than you... and probably more respectful of you than you are of me.

"Hello. My name is Coach White."

2006-07-13T00:47:00.000-04:00

Radical changes are in store for the J.L. Mann drama program.

First, there's me; Coach White. I don't do drama like anyone else. To me, high school drama is all about RESPECT. Respect for others, for yourself, for the theatre. In that order. So get used to hearing me talk about it. There's a whole lot of respect talk coming your way.

Also...when it comes to producing theatre, I believe our plays should rival the state championship for excitement. I think they should be of a quality equal to most college theatre. I think the plays we produce should be about important ideas. In short, I think what we produce for a paying audience should be totally kick ass...muscular...brave...important. With your help, I guarantee you will see such a production this coming spring.

Stay tuned for more cool stuff...I plan to announce the title, audition and production dates for this spring's Mann Show right here...on this blog...sometime in early December. Also, students who check in with this site will very often recieve answers to bonus questions on tests, recommendations for the absolute coolest movies, links to hot sites, and the most up-to-date information. For instance, did you know that students will be able to letter in Drama beginning this year? It's true. Want to know what our new theater at the New Mann will look like? I plan to post the architect's drawings right here. Anyone see SUPERMAN RETURNS? Did you dig it? I did. But for reasons that may surprise you...

So. Keep up with Mann Show 2007. I'll keep you down with Mann Drama.