Projects Presented and Break Begins

Ladies and gentlemen, the first term is now complete. Whew! What a race to the finish line. This past week we pitched a major business proposal to an industry panel in what has been our most complex project to date. I was partnered with my classmate Oran and together we developed a ten minute presentation and a twenty page business plan for assessment. We undertook the concept of opening a full service restaurant, cocktail bar and musical theatre cabaret called, A Chorus Wine. Our research included every aspect of the business, from real estate to a food and cocktail menu to the cabaret production. And our budget had to include everything needed for the entire venture as well. For those of you who run bars and restaurants, I now have a whole new level of appreciation for what you have to do just to get the doors open. Wow.

On Thursday, we had a ten minute verbal pitch to the panel. Armed with witty puns, a montage video of what the project may look like when complete and a Power Point presentation with the particulars, we addressed the panel as if they were potential investors in our business. We even brought each of them a mini bottle of wine to remember us by. It felt good to deliver the project. Many, many hours went into its creation and I am proud of what we accomplished.

Final papers were also due this week. Essays inspired by another project we delivered a week ago were submitted. I focused on the need for theatre to escalate productions that bring invisible illnesses and disabilities to light. The theatre has always been a way to educate the audience and explore topics important to our society and this is an area where we could use some additional support. With the rise of conditions like autism, PTSD, autoimmune diseases, bipolar disorders and many more, theatre could help us understand the needs and lifestyles of those suffering from these conditions and those that help care for them. With the recent successes of shows like The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time and Next to Normal, there is clearly a demand for these topics to be examined on stage.

Now begins a much needed break during the holiday season. I am looking forward to doing some reading, catching up with friends and exploring London. Oh and getting some rest. Next term will be here before I know it and I am sure to need all my energy.

I think I'll get stared on the rest part.
Until next time...
And don't forget to make your end of the year donation to your favorite arts organizations. They like Christmas presents too!
Take care!
-m