Countdown to HTBAM

It's a busy time in the Clumsy-verse, as we hurtle headlong towards the opening of How To Be A Man this Saturday night at the Brisbane Arts Theatre.

Yesterday was our bump-in, which is the theatrical term for building your set, and generally moving all your s*** into the theatre proper.

Here's a sneak peek at what is going to be the Best. Set. Ever:

There's much more work to be done, as we continue through "tech week": lighting and sound cues need to be configured; costumes are tweaked to make sure they're functional and funky and fit well; last minute re-blocking to ensure all the onstage action fits in with the set; and of course, getting that acting *just* right.

It's a long and often energy-sapping week. I've taken a week's leave from work to ensure I am available and focused on all the above, as well as carrying out all the other little jobs you wouldn't think about: designing the program; organising the merchandise and raffle prizes; marketing and promotion; the list goes on.

This morning we had our first media coverage, with playwright Simon Bedak doing a great interview with Spencer Howson on 612 ABC Brisbane. Much appreciated!

Now, a few questions about the show and the theatre have cropped up in recent times, so I thought I'd set the record straight with a few firm facts about How To Be A Man.

*You DO NOT need to have read the book to see/understand the play. The play is loosely inspired by the book, but playwright Simon Bedak has created a wholly original story. Of course, you *should* read the book at some point, as it's fun and informative, but there's no need to rush!

*You DO NOT need to have seen He Died With a Felafel in His Hand or The Tasmanian Babes Fiasco to enjoy the show. There are gags in the show that reference the previous plays, but I am incredibly mindful to make sure they don't confuse the new viewer. Consider them comedy easter eggs, if you will.

*The auction of naming rights for my giant penis costumes went very well! Thanks to all bidders. The names will be revealed on opening night.

*There are still tickets available for opening night this Saturday 12 November, but they're selling fast, so book now if you want to see the first-ever performance.

*I encourage people to plan and BOOK EARLY! We're heading into the Christmas season, and I know people are going to be beset with commitments. If you are dedicated to coming along, consider booking for the first two weeks (17, 18, 19 and 24, 25, 26 November). It helps us get crowds in early, and is great for word of mouth publicity (which is still by far the best marketing strategy). Also, through Felafel and Tassie Babes, we heard countless stories of people who left it too late to book tickets, then missed out because the shows starting selling out. I'd LOVE to sell-out again, but I hate people missing out. So this is my plea to you to be pro-active!

*The Twitter hashtag for How To Be A Man is #htbam. Short and sweet! You can also follow @artstheatre for updates, and even one of the characters - @Its_Gay_Jesus. Would love to hear your opinions and reviews of the show via Twitter, Facebook and blogs, so make sure you send them my way, either by leaving a comment here at girlclumsy.com, or shooting me a message via Twitter to @girlclumsy.

I must conclude with a massive thank-you to the cast, crew, BAT staff and all the talented others who have helped me with aspects of this production. I'm so grateful to you all; proper formal thank-yous with names and links will come after opening!