Sitting in the audience, it is easy to forget how much work went into a performance. If it is done well, audiences should not notice the actors or the set, but instead be transported into the action of the story.

Theater “techies” are therefore one of the most important elements of theater and, as a result, are in high demand. Paly students, eager for more opportunities, use their skills as stage assistants to get a glimpse into the professional world of theater.

In order to benefit from such an experience, however, the students “need to be able to hold their own with a company of adults, so they have to have a certain maturity, and definitely be responsible and reliable,” Jeanie Forte said, Jordan drama teacher and current director for the Palo Alto Players. “Kristen Lo and I sometimes discuss students and see which ones we think are ready to handle a more professional theater experience.”

Since Forte started directing for Palo Alto Players two years ago, she began getting her former students involved with the company at the Lucie Stern community theater. She also has recommended students to the Pear Avenue Theater in Mountain View.

“Occasionally students will let me know that they’re interested, but it depends on a combination of opportunity and the right fit,” Forte said. “For example, after working on Private Lives last year, Palo Alto Players has called freshman Zoe [Levine Sporer] back for other shows on their own – she proved herself such an asset that they love having her work for them.”

Students lucky enough to participate in such opportunities believe that it is a priceless chance.

“Doing Private Lives last year was my first experience outside of a school theater and I just really like the setting of this company,” Sporer said. “For Private Lives I was on run crew so I did set changes and then [this year] I did spot [light] for Jekyll and Hyde. Being so young I just take what they give me. I’m just happy that I have this opportunity.”

Most theater students start young, but it is not necessary for the profession. Connections on any level, however, are very beneficial.

“I’ve always been in theater – my mother is a costumer [and helps with Paly’s own productions], so I’ve been tagging along with her forever,” senior Katie Cravens said. “I started with Palo Alto Players this season with their season opener ‘Beehive.’ I was a dresser for that, [which involved] a lot of quick changes. I loved it so much, I just kept helping out. Through ‘Beehive’ I also met Rande Harris, who does wigs, and [since then] helped her with two operas for West Bay Opera: ‘Macbeth’ and ‘Queen of Spades.'”

Cravens also worked with Sporer and the cast for Palo Alto Players’ recent production of the musical Jekyll and Hyde.

“I was officially head dresser, but I was also on headset backstage and helped with set changes,” Cravens said.

Sporer also has experience under her belt.

“I started doing tech because I had done a little play in elementary school and I really liked it,” Sporer said. “I thought that the theater was really impressive and I just wanted to get involved. I’ve thought about acting a little and I think it would be cool, but I have stage fright so I don’t think it would work out.”

While everyone is encouraged to try theater, as in all forms of work, one has to work from the bottom up. Those with more experience will get the choicest picks.

“Every local theater is always looking for good, reliable backstage help – BusBarn Theater in Los Altos, for example, is currently trying to find someone for their upcoming show, and they’re certainly willing to hire the right high schooler who comes recommended,” Forte said. “It’s a great way for theater students to gain superb production experience, add a line to their resumes, and make a little money doing it.”

Forte is also looking for help for the play she is currently directing for Palo Alto Players, “Noises Off,” which will open on June 16 and perform for three weeks.

“[Freshman] Hannah Crown is helping on the show [Noises Off], as Rehearsal Assistant Stage Manager and showing true professional demeanor,” Forte said. “I’m also hoping that several other Paly students will help out as running crew for Noises Off.”