I was privileged to be the Front-of-House Manager for the 2019's run of Drama Box's Chinatown Crossings. The engagement had me leading the Front of House team; facilitating the audience members' experience in the promenade theatre experience throughout Chinatown; and processing related administrative duties.
Chinatown Crossings is a promenade theatre experience based on stories collected from the Chinatown community. The story follows an Indian man, Kunalan, and his recollection of his childhood in the streets of Kreta Ayer with his landlord's daughter, Ting Ting, and their Cantonese-speaking caregiver, Fong Cheh.
Due to the nature of the performance, Front of House staff undertook a myriad of responsibilities. These include: checking of tickets; troubleshooting of audio receivers worn by audience members; following the group during the performance; ensuring audience members' safety as they crossed roads; and setting up the Front of House spaces before, during and after the show.
House announcements were delivered by the Front of House team to the audience members. Special announcements were also made during inclement weather.
BACKGROUND
Chinatown Crossings is a promenade theatre experience based on stories collected from the Chinatown community. The story follows an Indian man, Kunalan, and his recollection of his childhood in the streets of Kreta Ayer with his landlord's daughter, Ting Ting, and their Cantonese-speaking caregiver, Fong Cheh.
Due to the nature of the performance, Front of House staff undertook a myriad of responsibilities. These include: checking of tickets; troubleshooting of audio receivers worn by audience members; following the group during the performance; ensuring audience members' safety as they crossed roads; and setting up the Front of House spaces before, during and after the show.
LEARNING POINTS
Being in the front line of this production demanded that I knew the production at the back of my hand. It could be essential things like: the prices of concession tickets and the tea we were serving. However, it also sometimes included extra trivia such as: how many crew members were working "back stage"; where the nearest MRT stations were; or how to volunteer with Drama Box! These experiences and insights gave me a different lens to approach the planning and logistics of running a show.
My biggest challenge was problem solving on the spot. For example: when we ran out of tea vouchers, it was more efficient to send one electronically rather than to run back to the office to get one. It was about knowing the right moment to dissuade passer-bys and the right time to approach audience members. I was most fortunate to have a team with me who could help me brainstorm solutions the most appropriate responses to make the best audience experience.
My biggest challenge was problem solving on the spot. For example: when we ran out of tea vouchers, it was more efficient to send one electronically rather than to run back to the office to get one. It was about knowing the right moment to dissuade passer-bys and the right time to approach audience members. I was most fortunate to have a team with me who could help me brainstorm solutions the most appropriate responses to make the best audience experience.
APPENDICES
The trailer for Chinatown Crossings. For more information, do visit the Chinatown Crossings web page here.
In the 2019 run, cast and crew took turns to do a social media take-over. Do check out their posts on the Chinatown Crossings Facebook and Instagram accounts.