The lights dim and the music fades, as the curtain call begins. But the first people on stage to take their bows aren’t the ones you’ve been watching for the last two acts. This motley collection of black-clad students form the customary line, perform a traditional bow, and then drift backstage as the cast claims the stage once more. Yes, the applause is for us too, but unlike the actors, whose time and effort are openly displayed, the stage crew’s commitment is often overlooked and unappreciated. From January to opening night, the crew of Freedom’s musical works hard to create the right atmosphere for each show. Peek into the auditorium from nine until one every Saturday morning, and you’ll see the magic happen. From the jungles of Peter Pan to the pyramids in this year’s Joseph ; a new world must be developed for each new show. This year’s production required a stage extension, and thanks to the army of “stage crew dads”, the project was complete in less than two weeks. The work isn’t all construction; a variety of odds-and-ends tasks provide opportunities for anyone willing to make the commitment. Painting, staining, and paper-mache are just a few of the jobs we’ve seen in the past, and even more pop up with each new show. Besides set construction, however, the stage crew has many more responsibilities. The props that magically appear during set changes? Stage crew. The set changes themselves? Stage crew. How about the stage lighting, spotlights, curtain and special effects? Stage crew is responsible for all of these too, and also much more during the performances. Our job is essentially to ensure that everything goes smoothly, to add the extra touches that take the show to the next level (like fog or Tinkerbell’s light), and to take care of the details that the cast just doesn’t have time for. Maybe you’ve always wanted to be a part of the musical, but just don’t have the musical abilities or coordination required to be on stage. Stage crew provides a job for just about any talent you may have, and we’re always looking for new additions to the family. It may sound too much like work (and in all honesty it is), but there’s always time for fun as well. Even if you are just content with your seat in the audience, take a moment this year during Joseph to appreciate the time and effort that students and parents alike contribute to the behind-the-scenes jobs that make Freedom’s musicals a continuing success.