Above All: Back in the Saddle

After a couple of days off from performances, the Above All cast returned to prepare for our final week of performances.  While labeled a benefit, it really was an opportunity for us to shake off the rust and get back to where we need to be for these next 3 nights.  Today, we look at the task one man has to make sure all of this runs smoothly.

The trouble of being off for a couple of days is that it's hard to slip back into character.  While the 48 hours of rest was a blessing and needed, it also prevented a lot of us from fully embracing our roles last night.  Let's just say there will be a lot of "see me" comments from Brother Keith tonight. 

However, that's what this run through was designed for.  It helped us shake off the distractions, the idleness and everything else so we can perform our roles effectively at the next performance.  It's another sacrifice that we make, but also the directors make.  Most notable for his sacrifice is Brother Keith.

Keith Skluzacek has to sit through each practice and performance and recognize what we're holding back or missing from the previous performances.  He has to take what other directors see and form it into a constructive thought that fixes the problem without destroying the confidence of the actor to whom the criticism is levied. It's not an easy job and one that he takes very seriously. 

This is more than a job, though.  It's a passion. When he addresses the cast each night, you can hear the desire in his voice.  His words almost crack with the conviction and passion he has for expressing the life of Christ to those who are lost, hurting and need. 

Brother Keith desires to make this production great.  To make us great.  To shew Christ to people who have never truly seen Him. All of his words, ideas and passion are meaningless if we don't get our own passion and focus set, though.  We must be prepared.  We must steel our hearts and minds and bring our all each night to Above All if we are to succeed.  God is ready to do the work.  He's just looking for willing vessels to perform the necessary tasks.  With a leader like Brother Keith, we have no excuse if we falter in meeting the mark.