"While you're in a clapping mood..."

Our technicians aren't exactly the unsung heroes of Too Much Light, because we sing about them often, sometimes even with actual songs. Each of them bring their own personalities and enjoyable quirks to the process, as well as the talent and professionalism to keep the show speeding along. We always ask our audience to give our technician a special round of applause after the show, but you don't otherwise get to find out much about them.

So here's the first in a short series of interviews with our technical staff.

Taylor Fenderbosch has been a TML tech since this past fall. She is the long-lost dowager princess of Belgium, owns a small ostrich ranch in Indiana, and once wrestled a 300-pound Green Beret to a draw in an illegal back-alley pit fight in Cozumel. And only the first sentence of this paragraph was true.

What inspired you to first join the ranks of TML technicians?

TF: I thought it would be a fantastic challenge. I tend to second guess myself when I am stage managing, but you don't have time for that kind of nonsense during TML. Plus, it's much more hands-on than running tech for traditional shows and therefore, TML allows you more freedom and creativity. It's a stage manager's dream.

Which play(s) have been the greatest challenge for you to run (specifically or generally)?
 
TF: Now in 3D! and A Play for Taylor, the Tech God. Both had a lot of different effects running at pretty difficult-to-predict moments. But both were far too much fun.

In your opinion, what's the greatest difference between watching the show as an audience member and watching the show as the tech?

TF: I only saw it once as an audience member so...you're far less confused as a tech person? I think I have a much greater appreciation for every aspect of TML now that I know the Neos behind each play and how it all comes together. 

Is there anything you've been dying to try doing in the show that you haven't had a chance to run yet?

TF: One day, I want to master the fun lighting effects that our fancy new light board claims it can do. Think of all the flashing! I also really like the plays where the tech person interacts with the Neos. More of that! Or if someone can write a play where I just throw things from the booth and see if anyone notices...? Yeah, someone should totally write that play. Kurt?

What has been your favorite moment of the experience so far?

TF: The experience of being in Taylor and Kurt Switch Places in an effort to prove how quickly life can change was pretty wonderful. Having to know both the tech and the performance aspects was terrifying/exciting. OR! the nights when we end EXACTLY when the buzzer goes off. Who knew that could be such a rush?