Save the Bees

2022

Save the Bees: A Touring Production Manager's Perspective

Directed by Duchess Dale and penned by NM State Senator Bill O’Neill, "Save the Bees" offers a reflective glimpse into the complexities of bipartisan collaboration in today’s sharply divided political landscape. The play toured key cities—Denver, Scottsdale, Silver City, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe—from January 28 to January 30, presenting audiences with both humor and serious contemplation on political and personal alliances.

About the Show:
Senator O'Neill crafted "Save the Bees" to highlight the personal and political challenges that legislators encounter as they strive to bridge ideological divides. The narrative centers on two diametrically opposed characters: Chapman Murphy, an older, urban liberal senator played by Geoffrey Pomeroy, and Luke Becker, a younger, rural conservative senator portrayed by Noah Segard. Set in an empty legislative chamber, the play unfolds through candid conversations about their upbringings, their deep-rooted friendship, and the polarizing issues that both unite and divide them.

My Role as Production Manager:
As the production manager for "Save the Bees," my responsibilities extended across the logistical orchestration of the tour, ensuring that each venue was suitably equipped to convey the play’s message effectively. This involved overseeing the design of lighting, sound, and projections, along with managing the technical rider that detailed the specific needs for the show’s successful execution at various locations.

The lighting design was tailored to reflect the mood and tone of the political discourse, using focused spots and softer washes to highlight the isolation and camaraderie between the characters. Sound design was crucial in recreating the ambiance of a legislative chamber, with echoes that resonated the gravity of the discussions. Projections were used sparingly to emphasize themes or display pivotal moments in the narrative, such as news clips or images that provided context to the senators’ debates.

Tour Challenges and Triumphs:
Touring "Save the Bees" presented unique challenges, especially in adapting to different venue sizes and technical capabilities. Each location required a quick setup and breakdown, meticulous attention to the local audience’s engagement, and adjustments to acoustics and seating configurations. The reward came in witnessing the resonant impact of the play, as it provoked thought, evoked laughter, and sparked dialogue among diverse audiences.

The tour’s success was a testament to the collective effort of the cast and crew, who navigated the logistical hurdles and embraced the play’s ethos of finding common ground amidst conflict. "Save the Bees" not only entertained but also imparted a poignant message on the importance of understanding and cooperation in governance—a timely reminder in our current political climate.