Minutes: 10th December 2012

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 10th December 2012

The STaG Room, 62 Oakfield Avenue, 5:40pm

In attendance were H. Allan, A. Cameron, A. Ciupka, N. Donald, W. Foote, M. Godden, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford

Apologies from  Jack Cameron, C. Goldstone, D. Hahn, R. Tildesley, Z. Williams

Also present was Harriet Bolwell (director of History Boys)

Agenda

1. MS1 Post-Mortem
2. NW
3. FS - Inver
4. MS2
5. Inter-Uni
6. NSDF
7. LGBT
8. PerfA
9. Socials
10. Board Trip
11. AOB

1.  MainStage 1 Post-Mortem

1. Positives:
   • Fun, loved every minute
   • A really good cast who were also committed and organised
   • Production Week was great, so many people helping out
   • Lighting was very good and the Tech team was always ‘on it’
   • Board supportive and helpful
2. Negatives: 
• Booking rooms - in future it may be better to set up a rehearsal schedule between the cast and director, and book it all beforehand
• A warmer venue than SWG3 would have been nice - even a couple of heaters would have helped!  Mixed reviews about the temperature
• One cast member was threatened for not attending rehearsals enough - the rehearsals policy worked though
3. Advice: 
• Be super organised
• Get a good SM who knows what he/she’s doing
4. L. Gasson has already approached H. Bolwell in anticipation of the next MS, but it is worth forwarding the email address of the previous MS director to the next to pass on advice and ideas.
5. SM - enjoyed it, it was a good learning experience.  Communication with the venue and the panic about finding a venue were the only problems, and cast attendance.
6. SN booking issue about poor turn-out was not so much of a problem here, partly because it seemed better plugged on the day.
7. Tech team members on the Board - especially for a MS, the President being involved should be avoided, and also especially in 3rd Year as uni work on top of STaG proved rather difficult.  S. Gow expressed how useful an experience being both backstage and on the Board was, seeing the different sides of production at once.
8. H. Bolwell was congratulated on such a high-quality, successful show.
   *H. Bolwell left the meeting.
9. Job roles were pushed to the limit - the Board is effectively the Producer, therefore the roles set out in the Board structure can be made the most of.  Tech, publicity and venues, for example, should be the responsibility of those dedicated to these elements; in future a meeting with the Director at the start of the season would be useful to explain exactly what support is where from the Board, perhaps especially if the director is new to STaG.  We should arrange a meeting with L. Gasson as soon as possible to underline the Board roles [ACTION: Aidan].
10. Audience - the play's length, the temperature and the uncomfortable seating really required more than one break in the middle.
11. Chairs - a different number were found in the venue and we took all the chairs from the STaG Room, which resulted in more than 100, so it was agreed we may as well use them.  However effectively this went behind the Board (see next point).
12. Overall it seems the Board needs a more authoritative presence, more of a system and some form of protocol, to define its role.  Essentially there are good reasons behind Board decisions and it is most useful if functioning as a cohesive support which takes care of the various aspects of productions in order for the director to concentrate on their main concerns.
13. The Board Rep role in the past was more as a producer; as the BR has to sit on the Board as well as go to rehearsals, and he/she may not know as much about publicity or venues eg. as the relevant Board members, however, it was decided to treat the Board itself foremost as the producer, then the BR being the director's focal point and there to relate the director's views.
14. Instead of a Post-Mortem at the end only, the director should come to a few meetings during the rehearsal process, once a month or after important stages.  
15. The last few points are only really relevant for the large-scale MS works.

2.  New Works

1. C. Goldstone is absent, however it was announced that another judge has been secured - Gary McNair.
2. Proposals shall come in over Christmas; there is a blurb to share on Facebook and for the newsletter.
3. M. Godden would like the artwork to forward to The S.P.A.C.E. [ACTION: Sinead].

3.  Found Spaces - The Investigation (Inver)

1. Production Meeting - arranged.
2. Venue - visit this week.
3. Script - ideas have been organised.

4.  MS2

1. BR - S. Gow.
2. Production Meeting - after Christmas.
3. The director's contact details shall be emailed round [ACTION: Aidan].

5.  Inter-Uni
The submission shall be sent tonight.

6.  NSDF

1. Venue - the Debates Chamber looks promising [ACTION: Mabs].
2. Application - to be sent [ACTION: Aidan].

7.  LGBT History Week

1. Application - sent on Friday.
2. Response - 17th December.

8.  Socials

1. January Social trailer to be filmed in Northumbria.
2. It would be nice to have more theatre visits next semester.

9.  Venue

1. A STaG Room clean-up must take place this week, after Tuesday.  Make a Doodle [ACTION: Nogs].
2. Inver - Old Hairdressers would be suitable.  Passed by R. Tildesley regarding finance.
3. L. Gasson likes the look of The Tron for MS2.
4. A. Cameron is to check that the STaG Room is all tidy after the trip [ACTION: Amy].

10.  Trip

1. Everyone is to bring food and wine.
2. Some are coming the second or third nights - meal teams should be worked out.  The numbers should add up to 13.
3. Alcohol - BYOB, although there is a pub next-door.  S. Linsley shall forward the address, and all are reminded to bring cash as there are no cash machines in the area.
4. S. Linsley shall book taxis.
   *A. Ciupka entered.
5. Board games and DVDs would be appreciated, and A. Rutherford will try to get his hands on a projector.
6. There are 10 beds, but sleeping bags would be great.

11.  AOB

1. M. Godden is to send the Inver blurb on [ACTION: Mabs].
2. H. Allan gave A. Rutherford some money to forward to R. Tildesley [ACTION: Aidan].
3. The first newsletter next year shall be sent during the week before term starts, before the NW deadline if possible.  The Social video is to be embedded in the newsletter [ACTION: Harriet].
4. The Board was reminded to write any notes or advice for posterity if the mood takes them over Christmas.

The date of the first meeting of next semester is Monday 7th January, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned and Merry Christmas!

Minutes: 3rd December 2012

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 3rd December 2012

The STaG Room, 62 Oakfield Avenue, 5:30-7:15pm

In attendance were H. Allan, A. Cameron, Jack Cameron, A. Ciupka, N. Donald, W. Foote, C. Goldstone, D. Hahn, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford, R. Tildesley, Z. Williams

Apologies from M. Godden

Also present were Leonie Rae Gasson, Connor Macgregor and Naomi Harrison (proposing for the next MainStage).

Agenda

1. MS2 Proposals
2. SN Post-Mortem
3. Studio Slot
4. NW
5. Improv
6. Inter-Uni
7. NSDF
8. LGBT
9. PerfA
10. Socials
11. Board Trip
12. AOB

1.  MainStage 2 Proposals

1.  'The Taming of the Shrew'

L. Gasson explained the story and her intention to juxtapose the comic role of Kate with highlighting the ultimate tragedy in the play.  To also demonstrate the constructed nature of the society, the set would be a box depicting the ‘on-stage’ world, around which could be seen the off-stage constructed world.  Here the characters' "essences" could also be seen, with several Kates representing her collected personality, for example one being male in order to highlight that side of her.  As Petruccio kills these sides of her in 'taming', however, they literally die offstage until there is finally only a frail, weak woman left.

• How would you ensure that the audience understood the concept?
  Costumes would be obvious and tokenist.  The interaction between figures would also make it clear, with all the Kates being tactile in one corner together.  
• Timeless era?  
  Ideally it would remain in the original era (to avoid adding more complications to the production) but it would not be ornate, instead bold and clear: for example, opulence would be signified by gold paint.  The language itself might conflict with any ‘setting’.
• Your inspiration?
  L. Gasson saw a production done as tragedy and remained very prominent in her mind.  She also studied the themes for which the play is a perfect medium.  Being Shakespeare, the rights would also not incur any expense.
• Next semester very busy and putting on a show is pretty time-consuming… do you have enough time for both?
  S. Linsley pointed out that last year when one MS2 director was also involved in the same course project, it all worked out fine as rehearsals could be organised in groups. 
• Experience?
  Last year L. Gasson was involved in many events all at once, which holds her in good stead, and she was very enthusiastic overall.
• What kind of directing process would you run?  
  Collaborative process mainly.  The aim would be a tight-knit group where cast and crew are only called in when necessary.  She has already applied for a course at the RCS on Shakespeare and has worked on his plays before; she would start with table-work to fully get into the text before any stage work, and would incorporate exercises and games.  Preparations would start as soon as possible.
• Venue? 
  None particularly in mind, but ideally the stage would be end-on to demonstrate to the audience how constructed their society is.  Therefore it shouldn't be beautifully rigged, but as exposed as possible.  In the past she has even searched for venues by walking and knocking on doors.
• Directing experience? 
  L. Gasson trained with Stone Crabs Theatre in London during her gap year on a directors’ course resulting in a professional production, and otherwise has been involved in this area for the last five to six years.  Her last production was Mexican realism in a listed building, which incorporated food and smell, so should it prove useful has experience of serving 300 hot chocolates to the audience while a scene continues.

2.  Arabian Nights

C. Macgregor proposed this story which has been around for centuries, involving a girl about to be executed who tells a thousand stories including Aladdin, for example.  The production would be light-hearted, not something heavy, dark and grim, and the preferred adaptation would be by Dominic Cooke, as it would be good to do something that is already established.  One of the play's advantages is the opportunity to portray various themes and genres which can be done very differently, and appeal to a range of target audiences.

• Experience?
  Not yet of directing, but C. Macgregor has been involved in a local theatre group, for example in a production of 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum', and has experience of prop-making and costume.  Has been working backstage for about a year and has seen others direct and how the process works.  He has also studied Film/TV in college, which obviously contains some similarities.  
• How would you control the large cast?  
  The different stories would have different rehearsal periods, and schedules would be sensitive to the time management of the cast and crew.  
• How many stories?
  Three; not too many but not too long (each 20-30 minutes).  
• Producer? 
  This would be helpful to assist the director more in what is happening in rehearsals and planning.

3.  Guards! Guards! 

J. Cameron and N. Harrison came in to describe Terry Pratchett's novel.  The most extravagant issue would be the costumes (helmets, breastplates, orang-utan) as the exuberant, mental characters are all well-illustrated by their apparel.  However the play involves all deep characters and is a heart-warming narrative.

• Fun?
  It is a very funny, good play, similar to HB in being comic but also very socially critical and deep with an engaging story.  J. Cameron is a huge Pratchett fan, and 'Guards! Guards!' seems to be one of his best.  
• Length?
  2 hours long.  
• Extreme characterisation?They are 'out-there', with clear traits.  Stereotypes are exaggerated completely for satirical comment; for example, certain characters could be described as stupid policemen, however they are not 2D but do develop.
• Venue?
  2 levels would work well and a large stage would be useful.  A more simplistic realisation works very well, as the story involves a huge variety of places.
• 2 directors - why together? 
  N. Harrison felt that co-directing NTN with W. Foote worked very well and would like to do it again.  You can bounce ideas off each other and J. Cameron knows the book inside-out and has seen it performed.  

After some discussion an initial vote brought the choice down to two.  'The Taming of the Shrew' would follow on well from HB, it incorporates the interesting topic of gender issues, and the director seems to e very knowledgeable on her work.  However it seems like a more serious production, and perhaps the Pratchett play would be more fun.  There was also the question of whether we should give opportunities to those who wouldn’t necessarily get them elsewhere.  It was pointed out that in a production of a Pratchett play in past experience, the audience numbers were split, and the rights would also be relatively expensive. 

A vote secured 'The Taming of the Shrew' as MS2.  Another advantage of the first proposal is the large cast of both genders, and it is worth keeping the occurrence of Shakespeare plays relatively regular.  Everything seems very thought-through and cast bonding was mentioned in the proposal, although of course the Board can contribute socials and keep an eye on dynamics for a production.  Concerns however from past experience were that Semester 2 has suffered from a lack of auditionees, rehearsal spaces and sad to say quite as much passionate prioritisation from the Board; hopefully with a fun, well-known production and a strong director, these issues will not arise.

For venues, the Board liked the idea of the Tron; this shall be researched.

Feedback: A. Cameron for L. Gasson, W. Foote for J. Cameron and N. Harrison, N. Donald for C. Macgregor [ACTION].  Z. Williams is to write a blurb for the newsletter regarding SMs [ACTION: Zoë], and this production should be announced [ACTION: Harriet].

2.  STaG Nights Post-Mortem

1. Overall it was really good:
   • Lots of time
   • There was a lot of progress over the summer in The Arches
   • The Board was useful and supportive in terms of both setting up and the actual festival, with people coming in to help off their own bats
   • The nights were a sell-out and there were no issues with people pulling out
   • Finally the shows themselves were good
2. To be improved - 
• A bigger van was needed 
• We didn’t know until 2 weeks beforehand that we could not have the chairs
• There were some difficulties with the Old Hairdresser’s, as we booked the Techs and Dresses and the chairs but in the end these did not happen
• The venue was very hot, and the acoustics (pipes) were not ideal, and 2 days were also lost along with the chairs.  However the venue was really useful during Production Week (any issues were more bad circumstance in the run-up) and the venue worked well for the theme: SN is not just about plays but also the atmosphere, which was suitably gritty (to which the pipes contributed).  However it would have been good to know about it beforehand to pre-warn directors.
3. Bookings - a problem has arisen that shows are selling out but then audiences do not turn up.  In future we should sell 80% online and guarantee 20% on the door.  Research last year on online payment suggests that this does not work in our favour and our site is not secure enough; A. Rutherford will investigate [ACTION: Aidan].  However perhaps we should encourage people to come to the shows in person more than book online, although this is a gauge of publicity with more momentum and hype possible.
4. Reminders - A. Rutherford sent email reminders before the show, which seemed to work really well and encouraged a prompt audience.  
5. Fundraising - went fine, although parties about death maybe not recommended in future, especially around Hallowe’en.  The Flying Duck event was more of a success perhaps due to the theme or coursework deadlines.  
6. Finance - roughly £530 profit.  A. Cameron was congratulated for a brilliant festival.

3.  Studio Slot

1. Poster designed - 4 simple words.
2. Production Meeting - on Friday (tbc).  
3. Venue - A. Cameron, M. Godden and S. Gow are to search [ACTION: Amy, Mabs & Sophie].  M. Godden is contacting The Old Hairdresser's as a venue; A. Rutherford and previous SN have performed plays there [ACTION: Mabs].

4.  New Works

1. Judges - K. Hurley and L. Lochhead will reply in due course.  It was mentioned that from past experience perhaps we should be wary of the bigger names, as sometimes the consequent standards, conditions and demands may be particularly challenging.  
2. The newsletter blurb is already out, and the last Writing Group is this week.
3. Any ideas for judges are still welcome - A. Cameron is working with someone who is doing a Screenwriting course next semester and will forward details [ACTION: Amy].

5.  Improv

1. Performance - went very well with a relatively good turn-out, some of whom were QM regulars and not necessarily there for STaG and who happily did stick around.
2. Next semester - the restructured planning committee after T. Pennock and E. Igelström disembark is to be A. Ahlinder, C. MacAskill, M. Reeves and R. Tildesley.

6.  Inter-Uni

1. All SN directors emailed expressed interest ('Hatty', 'Sk[in]' and 'Untitled').  The deadline is next week.
2. Dates - performance 11th March [EVENT: Inter-Uni].
3. A vote secured Sk[in] as the submitted play after some discussion: it is fluid, long enough and well-formed already, not too time-consuming to prepare, the lack of set is good for the road, only two actors are needed and they do not need to even rehearse together.  However, J. May (writer/director) is away in early February, but in light of the above this shouldn't be too problematic.

7.  NSDF

1. This is a much bigger deal: more expensive and a world stage.  
2. HB - H. Bolwell expressed interest.  However it was eventually decided that as strong as it is, HB just was not viable: issues include cast availability, the logistics of this size of cast (in Scarborough), it is a very obvious play, the cost of licensing, the time needs cutting down, as a huge hub of creative writing we really should take something we have written, but fundamentally it costs almost £100 to apply on top of a subscription ticket for all cast/crew.  Therefore sadly HB has very successfully perhaps run its course.
3. Duration - must be over 20 mins long.  
4. 'Untitled' - no set, really impressive and experimental.  We could re-stage it (possibly in Gilmorehill).  The standard must be very high; 'Untitled' was great for SN, but in terms of physical clowning in theatre it is probably not strong and this would need to be worked on.  But out of the options, it is the most suited to NSDF and of the highest standard, and also holds more scope for development.  Unanimous vote.
5. D. di Rollo and D. Green would have to go to clowning workshops - perhaps someone else could get involved?  J. Maitland could do a workshop.  A seminar tutor of S. Gow is doing her PhD on clowning and has been to Philippe Gaulier workshops [ACTION: Sophie].
6. Dates - NSDF is after Inter-Uni, from the 23-29^th March [EVENT: NSDF] with a representative coming to watch the show on the 15^th February [EVENT: NSDF scoop] at the latest (more at http://www.ideastap.com/Opportunities/Brief/edf86219-e833-422a-92d3-a0a900e8c1d3#Overview).

8.  LGBT History Week

1. Provides funds of up to £1000 for a single-night event based on LGBT themes.  J. May has suggested a mini SN ending in a clubnight, and is happy to be a second-in-command (as he is away at the start of February); further helped by A. Cameron and A. Rutherford.  
2. There will have to be proposals, the process as for any other event.  We could also collaborate with Polaris, the LGBT Society and the SRC.  Voted to go ahead.  
3. S. Linsley, A. Cameron and R. Tildesley are to have a short meeting tonight.

9.  Performing Arts

1. This was an idea to take place of the Writing Group, but now that CommA (Community Arts) is underway and A. Cameron is involved in the LGBT event and Board Repping, this shall not now go ahead.

10.  Socials

1. Panto - no longer planned.  
2. Subcrawl - 18^th January [EVENT].  W. Foote is to work on a trailer.

11.  Board Trip

1. The cheque is almost sent, and it appears that we are getting the train (3pm recommended).  On Tuesday morning we can leave whenever we please.

12.  AOB

1. Christmas - no nuts!  N. Donald is to put the list on Facebook to iron out the culinary arrangements [ACTION: Nogs].  All should chip in to buy the turkey [ACTION: All].  D. Hahn reminded the Board that she does not however have a huge oven, and she shall forward the address [ACTION: Debs].
2. Receipts refunded for HB set.

The date of the final meeting of this semester is Monday 10th December, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes: 19th November 2012

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 19th November 2012

The STaG Room, 62 Oakfield Avenue 5:35-6:25pm

In attendance were H. Allan, A. Cameron, Jack Cameron, A. Ciupka, N. Donald, W. Foote, M. Godden, C. Goldstone, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford, R. Tildesley, Z. Williams debs
Apologies from  

Pending actions from previous Minutes

• NSDF budget - looks viable, exact numbers required
• Trip cheque - to be sorted tonight
• SWG3 website - already on website
• Secret Santa - to be done tonight

Agenda

1. FS Proposals
2. SN
3. HB
4. Improv
5. NW
6. Publicity
7. Social
8. External Events
9. Trip
10. Secret Santa
11. AOB

1.  Found Spaces Proposals

1. One Proposal - dealing with the trauma of being an Holocaust survivor.  A gallery space would be ideal, but a studio space (not stag room) would also be suitable.  The actors would be introduced to the topic and asked the do some research on the historical circumstances behind the play.  The venue could possibly be The Citizens' Theatre, which M. Godden has already scoped, or else there's a gallery in Partick.  Lighting and installation involves four projectors, hopefully lighting the whole room.  The audience would move around the space, which would be laid out like four exhibitions involving dialogues and then monologues in front, with 12 actors.  However the set-up is very flexible and, as with the excerpts chosen, dependent on the venue; M. Godden would be happy to find a venue before Christmas, with help from A. Cameron [ACTION: Mabs & Amy].  Various Board Members suggested asking acquaintances for photos and information from trips to Auschwitz.  To reiterate, the dates are 28-29th January, although a 3-night run would be preferred for smaller audience sizes.
2. A vote securing this production as the first FS was unanimous.
3. Board Rep - A. Cameron [ACTION: Amy].  S. Gow also took up the post of SM.
4. The current lack of movement regarding the MainStage (and the two NMS productions) is slightly concerning; these shall be plugged more, for example in the Writing Group [ACTION: Catherine].

2.  STaG Nights

1. This went exceedingly well, and the Post-Mortem is to be held in two weeks' time.
2. Anonymous Feedback - A. Cameron is to send the form to cast and crew, after having received it from A. Rutherford [ACTION: Aidan & Amy].
3. Money - to be collected from A. Rutherford's abode [ACTION: Rob].
4. Newsletter - all belongings/items are to be cleared from the STaG Room and cupboard by Wednesday, in anticipation for the next social [ACTION: Harriet].
5. Wood glue is required to fix R. M. Barbour's wooden hand; S. Gow kindly offered to bring some in [ACTION: Sophie & Zoë].

3.  History Boys

1. Full run-throughs are now in progress, and mostly just practising and polishing is now required; it seems very promising.  The Tech is on Sunday, and props are now being used.
2. Venue - some of the play has been re-blocked, but not much more can be done until a venue trip.
3. Tech - sorted, and K. Milligan has also joined the team.  £175 was spent on the P.A. system, etc., however no lighting gear is needing to be purchased.
4. Door Rota - this has been sorted.
5. Tickets - everyone please book!  So far we have sold half of Tuesday, four fifths of Wednesday and all of Thursday.
6. Chairs - more chairs were suggested to expand capacity.  However it was suggested that as currently with 100 chairs there are several obscured viewpoints, the likelihood of returns at the door should be plugged instead.
7. Rehearsal Rooms - mostly due to Thanksgiving, there seem to be very few available spaces!  M. Godden shall look into The Wellington Church (fee required), the Kings Theatre (free student rehearsal spaces), the performance studio at the university, at the Conservatoire or at all events in A. Ciupka's sitting room [ACTION: Mabs].

4.  Improv

1. Performance this week; come along!
2. Entry Fee - being in the QMU, it seems that we cannot charge an entry fee, however a suggested donation of £3 is to be implemented.  This should be confirmed by a phonecall to T. Pennock [ACTION: Sinead].  However as STaG is not spending anything on it, it would be more a good fundraising opportunity than requiring to cover its costs.

5.  New Works

1. Emailing has commenced; 2 judges confirmed, Rob Drummond has given no reply as yet, and S. Gow shall forward Kieran Hurley's contact details (as First-Year Theatre students still receive his university email address) [ACTION: Sophie].  Douglas Maxwell also expressed an interest last year but was unavailable; a new batch of potential judges shall be contacted soon.
2. Blurb for Newsletter - to be sent to H. Allan [ACTION: Catherine].

6.  Publicity

1. HB - the director did a huge amount of postering last week; nevertheless, please may Board Members take some to distribute elsewhere, for example in the Round Reading Room and Charles Wilson Building [ACTION: All].
2. HB - Tuesday is the day above all to be pushing, as the most tickets are left then; this show is shaping up to be a great one, so it deserves to be well-plugged!  It seems like the active publication of STaG Nights on Facebook was a central part of its popularity; please continue sharing [ACTION: All].  There is no trailer.
3. Cover Photo - A. Rutherford is to send S. Linsley the original photo [ACTION: Aidan].
4. Schools - this email is to be forwarded to A. Cameron, Z. Williams and M. Godden [ACTION: Sinead].

7.  Social

1. Refreshments - to be bought before the social on Friday by M. Godden and W. Foote [ACTION: Mabs & William].  M. Godden suggested bringing some homemade mulled wine to share at the Christmas Social [ACTION: Mabs].
2. Christmas Social, Santa Costume - to be dug out of the cupboard.
3. Tree - S. Gow is able to bring a small one, otherwise Zoë or J. Gilvear may be able to contribute [ACTION: Sophie, Zoë, Jenny].
4. Fancy Dress - Christmas-themed if willing!
5. Decorations - volunteers at 6.30pm on Friday to help set up would be much appreciated; W. Foote is to send a text as a reminder [ACTION: William; All].
6. HB Fundraiser - 8pm on Wednesday [EVENT].  W. Foote and R. Tildesley should come early with the moneybox [ACTION: William & Rob].
7. Basin - after throwing out the item left from the previous social, A. Rutherford kindly volunteered to buy a new basin for I. McArthur.

8.  External Events

1. Inter-Uni Competition - 3 SN plays were selected by the Board to be potential candidates for York; each director shall be emailed if they would be interested [ACTION: Amy]; if all agree, then they will be asked to re-propose and a vote shall decide.  The selected play may need to be extended to fulfil the whole 45 minutes required.  The dates again are the 10th December (deadline) and the week of 11th March (performance) [EVENT: Inter-Uni].
2. NSDF - SN plays again would make good candidates, as this runs too close in timing to NW, MS2 and 'The Investigation' (FS).  One of the other pre-suggested titles should attend; A. Cameron is also to mention this opportunity in her correspondence [ACTION: Amy].  The date for a performance to be judged is 15th February, 2 weeks after the proposal deadline, and the performance itself is 23-29th March [EVENTS: NSDF].  The judging performance would be opened up as a standalone event open to the public, as opposed to taking the place of a NMS.

9.  Trip

1. A. Cameron to take the minibus test next week; H. Allan shall book one [ACTION: Harriet] and E. Igelström shall be chased [ACTION: Aidan].
2. Cheque - required tonight for the housekeeping costs [ACTION: Rob].

10.  Secret Santa

1. This was administered and partners chosen.  The limit of gift cost is £5 [ACTION: Santa].
2. M. Godden is to give D. Hahn her name [ACTION: Mabs].

11.  AOB

1. Signatures - change after HB.
2. QMU Review - of HB has been queried, although they would like a complimentary ticket.  A. Ciupka is to forward S. Linsley's email address [ACTION: Alex].

Due to HB rehearsals, there will not be enough members available for a meeting next week; therefore the date of the next meeting is Monday 3rd December, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes: 12th November 2012

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 5th December 2012

Cooper's Bar, 499 Great Western Road 5:45-6:30pm

In attendance were A. Cameron, Jack Cameron, N. Donald, W. Foote, M. Godden, C. Goldstone, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford, R. Tildesley, Z. Williams
Apologies from H. Allan, A. Ciupka, D. Hahn
Also present was E. Igelström (previous FinSec), for the transition in the position.

Pending actions from previous Minutes

• All (& Zoë) - Clean-Up after SN
• All - Share on Facebook for SN, put up posters and book tickets.  There will be tickets at the door.

Agenda

1. SN
2. HB
3. NW
4. Publicity
5. External Events
6. Social
7. Venues
8. Exec
9. AOB

1.  STaG Nights

1. Starts tomorrow - all is going well; programmes are almost done, tech/dress rehearsals are on the day, and chairs are prepared for tomorrow morning.  Anyone's help at 10:30pm tomorrow morning to move chairs into the van would be appreciated [ACTION: All].  [*E. Igelström entered.]  
2. No afterparty venue as yet - somewhere needed urgently!  Any suggestions to be forwarded [ACTION: All].
3. Storytelling instructions - to be given with tickets.  
4. Band - turn up at six for a soundcheck.  
5. Door Duty - from 6:45pm (remember to print off booking sheets after 5pm; check Facebook for rota again - Sophie, Jack, Alex, William, Aidan & Sinead).  Especially if on the doors but for all the Board, please wear all black and/or STaG T-shirts [ACTION: All].
6. Conflicting opening times were circulated; officially at 7:30pm the doors open, with plays starting at 8pm. 
7. Shows - are going well.  A. Cameron spoke to all the directors today, and all are happy with what is happening.  
8. Memberising - the email should be sent out [ACTION: Amy/Aidan].  E. Igelström to go to the venue to collect money from D. Mackay.

2.  History Boys

1. Grant form - received by R. Tildesley; to be sent off tomorrow after figures located [ACTION: Erik/Rob].
2. Fundraiser - to be blurbed in this and the next weeks' newsletters [ACTION: Aidan].
3. Rehearsals are going very well,  from next Sunday the whole show is being run [ACTION: rehearsal, 11:30pm, Zoe and Adam, Chaplaincy (tbc)].  
4. Venue visit - several issues include it being too small, the audience can see into the wings, it's noisy and echoey, trains pass overhead, and there is a height issue on stage.  Some scenes are being re-blocked and everything shall come together again.  
5. Posters - out today, S. Linsley shall go around the university tomorrow.

3.  New Works

1. Venue - booked.
2. Panel - two judges have been booked.  Ideal remaining judges are to be emailed, such as Rob Drummond and Kieran Hurley.  S. Linsley also mentioned a Glasgow writer, or there's Katie in the Theatre Department; two people are to be emailed at a time, in stages.  
3. Newsletter - blurb from next week [ACTION: Catherine].

4.  Publicity

1. SN - we know people are coming, however tickets are not being booked and it's only half-full for the first night.
2. HB - posters done.  A letter has been drafted to local schools with the possibility of workshops.  Perhaps this should be held over until other CommProj workshops, and amalgamated into this.
3. Finance - a 10% discount for schoolkids is to be implemented, as it should bring in 20+ people.  The whole letter is to be sent to the 'Grammar Nazis' [ACTION: Sinead; Zoë, Harriet, Nogs, (Erik)].
4. S. Linsley is to add text to the SRC image, which shall be sorted by A. Rutherford [ACTION: Sinead & Aidan].  The images are on the uni web service.  We should also send it to the English Lit. and Philosophy departments [ACTION: Sinead, Zoë?], and Sarah in the Music Dept. [ACTION: Nogs].
5. A banner for website with proposal deadlines is required [ACTION: Sinead].

5.  External Events

1. Inter-Uni Competition - the same thing as in Bristol last year is to happen in York on March 11th.  December 10th is the deadline - perhaps expand a SN act to 50 minutes; everyone is to keep an eye out for any suitable plays during SN.  To York it is about £15 on the train (or even cheaper by minibus).  The Board voted on going ahead with this engagement (it is a month after NW, and MS2 is at the end of March).
2. NSDF - lots of festivals.  They need to see a performance - perhaps MS2, 29th March?  The viability of its financial requirements should be investigated on the website [ACTION: Rob].  For next week, a budget of some sort should be drawn up [ACTION: Erik].  The Board also voted that they were happy to proceed with this.

6.  Social

1. Meal - 6th December at D. Hahn's flat [EVENT: Board Christmas Dinner].  
2. Next week a Secret Santa is to be drawn [ACTION: Sinead] and the food arrangements sorted; it would be particularly useful if nobody was to miss next week's meeting for this reason! 
3. Trip - Amy has booked her minibus test.  E. Igelström is to practise and do it again - he shall book his test this week [ACTION: Erik].  S. Linsley is to share the address and other information [ACTION: Sinead].  If H. Allan is also to sit the test, then 3 people have a license and hopefully 2 out of 3 can attend the trip (E. Igelström is possibly otherwise engaged).

7.  Venues

1. Ball - GUU bookings become complicated after Christmas with The Hive being shut.  The date for the Ball shall be the 20th May [EVENT: STaG Ball, GUU Debates Chamber].  M. Godden is to book for the whole day, and also the bar [ACTION: Mabs].
2. STaG Room - MSA has a new President.  The cleaner tidied up the mess after the Hallowe’en Party; next time we should leave a sign up saying that she doesn't have to.  However M. Godden has already kindly spoken to her and bought her chocs.

8.  Exec

1. Next meeting - just after the Mainstage.  
2. Minutes - to be circulated [ACTION: Nogs].  
3. Content - not much discussed, new writing deadlines and general management; all seems to be going well.
4. Email action points every week [ACTION: Nogs].

9.  AOB

1. Rehearsal schedule for all of STaG Nights is to be sent to M. Godden for booking [ACTION: Amy & all directors].  
2. SN P.A.s and Tech - Stereo is providing us with 3 microphones through the P.A. system.  Acoustic and bass guitars go through the amps.
3. Christmas Social - a trailer goes live tonight; please enjoy and share.
4. SWG3 - S. Linsley is to contact John the Programmer about publicity on their website [ACTION: Sinead].
5. SN - Sk[in] title - to be fixed on the website.  On blurb it also says that the performances are to be performed simultaneously, which is not actually happening.  Instructions shall also be sent detailing how to tackle the website ourselves [ACTION: all Aidan].
6. SN - the money box shall be provided [ACTION: Erik & Rob], and instructions for the booking sheet shall be forwarded [ACTION: Aidan].  On the door, wait until it is only 5 mins until the performance before letting in the waiting list.  Festival passes shall be available to sell on the door; and remember to rigorously note names on a waiting list for allowing some extra folk in.

The date of the next meeting is Monday 19th November, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned.

Executive Minutes: 8th November 2012

Minutes of STaG Executive Meeting 8th November 2012

Stravaigin, Gibson Street 5:20pm

In attendance were A. Cameron, N. Donald, C. Goldstone, E. Igelström, A. Rutherford, R. Tildesley

              A.  Finance

              B.  The Board

              C.  STaG Overall

              D.  AOB

A.  Finance

1. Changeover (The second half of the handover from E. Igelström to R. Tildesley is the Board Meeting next Monday.)

• Cheque Book - the names for this shall be altered after SN [ACTION].
• Budget Meeting - this shall be needed for MS1 to bring Rob up to date [ACTION].
• R. Tildesley has received all the relevant paperwork and is slowly getting his head round the works; he was reminded that E. Igelström is always available for support, as is the rest of the Board.

 

     2.  Current Affairs

• Annual Budget - an annual budget plan has not yet been made, as there seems no point in setting anything explicit: every show changes the year's finance and depends on too many variable factors.  Therefore the year is worth keeping in mind, but not something we can schedule.
• Current situation - so far we have made a profit on everything and have a very secure nest in the bank.  The venue situation for HB is a gamble, in that the fee is greater but so is the capacity, but this is perhaps something to explore, such as a larger publicity campaign for MS2 or NW: what would the effect be with advertisement in the subway, for example?  [ACTION: Board Agenda].
• Grants - to be looked at soon.  The SRC Grant in particular needs to be applied for before HB, once the blurb is received [ACTION: Rob].

B.  The Board

1. Morale - there seems to be no tension, feuds, chaos nor cliques, and no opposing ideologies; everyone is enjoying themselves and getting on splendidly.
2. Tasks - it was pointed out that tasks are often slipping deadlines, and we should endeavour to be more efficient at completing things which we've been allocated [ACTION: Board Agenda].  To help reinforce this, action points shall be emailed every week after the Board Meeting [ACTION: Nogs].

C.  STaG Overall

1. Venues - M. Godden is looking into alternative venues such as the Tron, Lansdowne and Tramway (which is very reasonably priced and an amazing space, just a bit far away), especially as Cottiers is taking down its theatre space soon.  
2. Performance Arts (PerfA) - shall be scoped for soon, taking the place of the Writing Group [ACTION: Amy].  
3. Upcoming Events - the next newsletter maybe should detail all of the events next semester to get them in perspective; if anything a fundamental issue is just not getting enough proposals for STaG to put its weight behind.  A better blurb is to be written for NMS [ACTION: Aidan]. 

 

D.  AOB

1. A Dada Mail pack is required [ACTION: Aidan].
2. Membership - H. Allan should go along to SN tech/dress rehearsals to ensure that as many people are memberised as possible; D. Mackay shall be met by A. Cameron and E. Igelström to finally pay the last installment from the Fringe and membership; as a whole any unmemberised performers are by the Constitution not eligible to get on stage [ACTION: Harriet], emails on this matter shall be sent to those involved in SN [ACTION: Amy].  The membership generally seems low this year, however it is still early days.
3. Paperwork - requests shall be sent for an Exec Pack, Door Duty Pack, Minutes Template [ACTIONS: Nogs], Drinks and MD Packs [ACTION: Nogs email relevant parties], Wordpress and Webmaster Packs [ACTION: Aidan/Tom Pennock?], Rejection Template [ACTION: Amy], Election Pack [ACTION: volunteer(s)?] and the Writing Group [ACTION: Catherine].
4. Uniform - Board members should dress distinctively for events, especially if on the door, in the orange T-shirts and black [ACTION: Board Agenda].
5. GUU Bookings - due to the Hive shutting down, bookings need to be in before Christmas for the rest of the year, meaning that the Ball needs to be booked now [ACTION: Board Agenda].

The next meeting shall take place after MS1.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes: 5th November 2012

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 5th December 2012

The STaG Room, 62 Oakfield Avenue 5:35-6:10pm

In attendance were H. Allan, Jack Cameron, A. Ciupka, N. Donald, W. Foote, C. Goldstone, D. Hahn, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford, R. Tildesley, Z. Williams
Apologies from M. Godden, A. Cameron
Also present was E. Igelström (previous FinSec), for the transition in the position.

Pending actions from previous Minutes

• Mabs - Clean-Up needs organising
• Zoë - Wall Planner
• Zoë - Cupboard Clean-Up

Agenda

1. FinSec
2. SN
3. Publicity
4. Social
5. OrdBoards
6. Venues
7. Internet
8. AOB

1.  FinSec

The Board introduced themselves and welcomed the new FinSec R. Tildesley.

2.  SN

1. Please share the link on Facebook [ACTION: All] and use the cover photo (with Sinead, Jack version for the website).
2. Most backstage preparations are sorted and everything is mostly going well.  There were some issues with the 'Hatty' SM but this has been sorted.  
3. Launch Night is on Friday [EVENT], please come and dress up in your best Romanian Tombstone costume.  A rehearsal needs to be shifted [ACTION: Aidan].
4. Tech Meeting is to be confirmed.  
5. SN Fundraiser went very well.  Before the next one, as usual refreshments need to be bought - A. Ciupka & J. Cameron volunteered for Thursday evening (to contact A. Rutherford beforehand).

3.  Publicity

1. The SN posters were a week behind due to a broken laptop and poster and printer mishaps, but all finally fixed.  Please share the event on Facebook and help with circulating posters [ACTION: All] - currently all of the university, Gibson Street, up to the Halt and Ashton Lane are covered.  Tomorrow S. Linsley shall be out putting up more.
2. HB posters currently at the printers.  Business cards are printed, although some needed redoing.  Again, please grab some posters and start booking tickets (for both productions) [ACTION: All].  All is well within budget, although it shouldn't be forgotten that this is extra money spent by STaG for re-printing.  S. Linsley also emailed GUM and the Journal, material is doing the rounds on the TV circuit, an acquaintance at the Skinny has been contacted, and a review is to be done by those involved with Glasgow Girls.

4.  Social 

1. The Friday before HB is to be the Christmas Social [EVENT: 23rd November].  A trip to the pantomime, e.g. shall be researched soon [ACTION: William].  
2. Last week's Hallowe'en Social went really well and was very enjoyable.  Some money for decorations is to be reimbursed [ACTION: Erik].  

5.  OrdBoards
Further to last week's suggestion, OrdBoards should contact SMs for the relevant productions.


6.  Venues

1. The Cupboard Clean-Up shall commence at 2pm on Wednesday, then if necessary again at 2pm on Thursday [EVENT].  
2. Newsletter blurb about room booking shall be submitted by M. Godden for the next issue [ACTION: Mabs].  Zoe is to email current SMs about the issue with booking rooms [ACTION: Zoë].  The members able to book rooms will be A. Rutherford, M. Godden and S. Gow.
3. There was a suggestion that there should be a policy on having rehearsals in peoples' flats; it was decided that no formal policy is needed, but any issues can always be brought to the Board.

7.  Internet

1. The formatting on the last newsletter seemed slightly squint and may need looking at - H. Allan is to send A. Rutherford the access link [ACTION: Harriet & Aidan].  
2. Board Emails - these have also been playing up, so please double check that any emails have actually sent [ACTION: All].

8.  AOB

1. There was a reminder that proposals for the NMS are due in soon.
2. Exec Meeting is to take place at 5pm on Thursday at Stravaigin [ACTION: Aidan, Amy, Catherine, Nogs, Rob & Erik].
3. Ironic Hive Trip - to take place after the Improv performance on the 22nd November [EVENT: Hive].
4. Improv - how it is organised and likely to continue was breached.  T. Pennock is stepping down at Christmas, with E. Igelström perhaps following soon thereafter, which leaves only C. MacAskill and A. Ahlinder in the planning committee.  Suggested ways of making sure it survived strong included approaching people to help run it, or putting it in the newsletter; Improv does seem to keep a low profile and seems more distant than other aspects of STaG.   The Committee shall talk first to the people in Improv about the issue.
5. Writing Group - likewise, should this be the responsibility of VPNW?  It was agreed that this should probably depend on the individual.
6. H. Allan is unavailable when the newsletter is due out on Tuesday, and shall forward the material  [ACTION: Harriet & Erik].
7. Christmas Dinner - to be confirmed next week once the exam timetable is out.
8. Board Trip - a cheque is being sent to Sinead's uncle, and by train the trip costs about £15 return.  H. Allan may be unable to come, which may impact on the minibus, but it would be useful if she took the test anyway for future outings [ACTION: Harriet].  The dates are confirmed as the 15-18th December [EVENT: Board Trip to Northumberland].

The date of the next meeting is Monday 12th November, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes: 29th October 2012

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 29th October 2012

The STaG Room, 62 Oakfield Avenue 5:35-6:10pm

In attendance were H. Allan, A. Cameron, Jack Cameron, A. Ciupka, N. Donald, W. Foote,M. Godden, C. Goldstone, D. Hahn, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford, Z. Williams
Apologies from E. Igelström

Pending actions from previous Minutes

• Nogs - reschedule band rehearsal for Tuesday

Agenda

1. Arnie
2. SN
3. HB
4. Publicity
5. OrdBoards
6. Election
7. Venues
8. Newsletter
9. Paperwork
10. AOB

1. Arnie  
To be postponed until the director is able to attend.

2.  SN

1. Fundraiser tonight - it should be a relaxed, chilled-out night, and hopefully various cast should attend.
2. Publicity - pretty much completed.  
3. An SM dropped out, but was replaced.  The venue trip went very well.

3.  History Boys

1. Not much change - fundraiser figures are still required [ACTION: Erik].
2. A venue visit is needed - M. Godden is to keep emailing the venue to organise this [ACTION: Mabs].  The form for venue rights needs completing as soon as possible.

4.  Publicity
HB target not met by the director, but should be soon.  Posters shall be completed this week, to be put up with the help of all of the Board.


5.  Social 
The Ghost Story has been written.  Help to set up at 5-6pm would be much appreciated, and please let W. Foote know if you are interested in role-play [ACTION: All].  Pumpkins are to be sourced in Poundland, and/or some real ones shall be bought.  There was a reminder that the election shall take place directly beforehand [EVENT: FinSec Election, Monday, 7:30pm].


5.  OrdBoards
A. Rutherford suggested giving each of the OrdBoards a task.  Therefore the following shall help specifically in each area:

• S. Gow - Venues
• J. Cameron - Tech
• D. Hahn - SN 
• A. Ciupka - Publicity

6.  Elections
H. Allan and W. Foote shall start proceedings at 7.30pm.  E. Igelström shall give a short speech, then each candidate has a minute to talk.  A bell or similar instrument should be found to end the minute [ACTION: Harriet & William].  If enough people (20) attend, a secret ballot shall happen immediately, if not a box shall be kept by the bar for being added to during the social.

7.  Venues

1. A system for dealing with venues needs to be organised - the Catholic Chaplaincy is confused, for example, and the QMU is also complaining.  Every production therefore should send a rehearsal schedule for the week to M. Godden on Mon, and either book the rooms themselves or ask S. Gow or A. Rutherford to do so, which means that everything is booked once a week.  M. Godden is to write a blurb for the newsletter and email SMs on this matter (and A. Cameron) [ACTION: Mabs].  This applies to any external venue - QMU, GUU, CC - as the booking sheet for the STaG Room works perfectly well.
2. The cupboard should be cleared up soon as it is currently too messy for fire regulations and the IT people.  If necessary things can be thrown out, although the Sloth should be given to Debs to stay in her flat.  Particularly the stuff behind door is dangerous as it often blocks the way [ACTION: Zoë, Adam?, volunteers...].
3. Likewise, the STaG Room itself, including the pleasant exodus of mugs on the mantelpiece, needs a clean [ACTION: Mabs, Nogs, volunteers].  The Calendar/Planner shall be added to the wall tomorrow [ACTION: Zoë].

8.  Paperwork
In reference to an email sent a week ago, N. Donald mentioned the current situation regarding the STaG literature and asked some questions on the following:

• paperwork used regularly (forms, lists, templates) which could be backed up for future use
• a duty which you think some advice about would be helpful
• a duty which you feel is a particular strong point of yours, which you might write about
• paperwork of other Board members, access to which you'd find useful
• Board Packs of previous years
• What we've struggled with, for our Board Packs
• Other packs - SM, Music Director, eg.
• Current packs - Board Rep, eg. - how much these are circulated

9.  Newsletter
H. Allan reminded the Board to send items for the newsletter to her a.s.a.p., particularly details about socials, fundraisers, events happening during the week for example.  Please stick to the deadline - 5pm on Tuesday (occasionally Wednesday).  J. Cameron's subscription is also to be sorted [ACTION: Harriet].


10.  AOB

1. Cecilians - interest has been expressed in a joint ceilidh; the costs are £400 for the band, and tickets are £5.  It was suggested that the auction could be for both societies (often auctioning off time and talents).  A. Ciupka, W. Foote, E. Igelström and the new FinSec should meet the Cecilians to discuss further [ACTION: Alex, William, Erik & Rob].  It takes place this semester, in the GUU on the 26th November.  This date causes difficulties, however, as it is the day before HB.  It was suggested that we could then ask if we could join with something next semester, or else try to come to some agreement about this semester regarding their kind offer - this is to be discussed at the meeting. 
2. We already have two judges for NW - Fiona Sturgeon Shea and Stewart Archibald.
3. A. Cameron's birthday party is on Friday, all are welcome!

The date of the next meeting is Monday 5th November, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes: 22nd October

Minutes of STaG Board Meeting, 15th October 2012

The STaG Room, 62 Oakfield Avenue 5:45-6:30pm

In attendance were A. Cameron, Jack Cameron, A. Ciupka, N. Donald, W. Foote, C. Goldstone, M. Godden, D. Hahn, E. Igelström, S. Linsley, A. McCallum, Sophie McCormack-Gow, A. Rutherford,
Apologies from H. Allan, Z. Williams
Also present was Jenny Gilvear (Co-Director of NTN)

Pending actions from previous Minutes

• Mabs - to text Sarah MacDonald about archiving.

Agenda

1. FYBRs Welcome
2. NTN Post-Mortem
3. Arnie
4. SN
5. HB
6. Publicity
7. FinSec
8. Exec
9. Social
10. Board Trip
11. AOB

1.  First Year Board Reps
The Board welcomed J. Cameron and S. Gow to the STaG Board.  The talking system was explained (i.e. thumbs up for agree, hand up to say something, and hand out at the person whose point you'd like to comment on).

2.  New Talent Nights Post-Mortem

1. W. Foote (Co-Director, Second Performance)
   a)  Overall the productions went very well and everyone had a great time.
   b)  What was being done every week could have been more defined; required set was not always built, for example, and Z. Williams seemed rather swamped.
2. J. Gilvear (Co-Director, First Performance)
   a)  There was sometimes difficulty in delegating and checking up on tasks, and the biggest problem was probably sourcing a script; as a result, this production started slightly on the back foot compared to the other team.  It was suggested that STaG should perhaps supply both versions in the summer, or at least check that there are possibilities; potentially the same script could be used for both, however this tends to create a 'samey' feel and encourage comparison of productions - the format of two teams producing the same story is problematic anyway.  Again for 'The Wind in the Willows' last year, one script was suggested and one director found his own.
3. Regarding the board's role, the directors felt well looked-after and therefore didn't freak out too much with problems, what with the participation of the Board Reps (and the added advantage of W. Foote being on the Board himself).
4. Budget - this was purely based on last year, being an almost identical set-up, and it worked well; in true style most things were begged and borrowed, and then most of the bought items stayed with their tags and were returned.  It seems STaG had a bad reputation of borrowing things, however, for example at Vintage Guru - handling items is something to be more aware of, even when the show is over.  Finally receipts need to be gathered for the production, and a cheque is needed to reimburse D. Hardie [ACTION: Erik].
5. Publicity - Facebook was probably the most helpful tool here, but the materials were available very quickly and this generally seemed to work really well.  
6. Management - it's important to know what is the director's responsibility and what can be delegated, and whether enough information has been given to Tech and Backstage.  It would be worth collecting more comprehensive contact details at the start (at Freshers, perhaps, along with QMU membership and matric numbers), and it is important that the Stage Manager knows how to book a room.  Full cast rehearsals could also be pre-booked, so that when cast and crew are signing up to NTN, they know exactly when rehearsals will actually be.  The rehearsal schedule tended to be for the full cast every Saturday, for example.  A couple of paragraphs for pack on NTN Directing would be much appreciated [ACTION: Jenny, Kat, Naomi & William].

3.  Arniegeddon
This has sold-out, and tonight W. Foote and A. Cipuka are on the door.  The money and booking form need to be sorted beforehand.


4.  STaG Nights

1. A cold but successful shoot happened on Saturday where the posters and trailer materials were completed, and the make-up artist was very nice.  On Sunday there was also a backstage trip to Stereo, where a video for backstage crew was made and the space was measured.
2. Most shows are now cast, the remaining holding auditions this week with the last one on Friday night.  Two directors have already asked what Stereo looks like - a Facebook group for directors has already been set up and a Doodle for a visit is in progress.  
3. This week the booking form shall open, a blurb shall be posted in the newsletter and the banner shall be made.  

5.  History Boys

1. The cast is to be off-script this week and it seems to be going well. 
2. 7^th November is the fundraiser, on a murder mystery theme, with the SN Launch Night two days before on the 5^th November - details on the funds raised in the past were requested [ACTION: Erik].  A venue trip is being organised, and M. Godden is to send details of the receptionist to A. Rutherford [ACTION: Mabs].

6.  Publicity

1. Now on the final two projects - the shoot for SN went well and a provisional deadline for all HB material is this wekend.  In the HB pipeline are the poster and printing of the cards (this week).  
2. It was decided to circulate no HB poster before SN is over, so the different publicity campaigns are not conflicting.

7.  Financial Secretary

1. One person has withdrawn their interest, and one more person is a candidate.  Elections need to be prepared, and manifestos shall be sent out in the newsletter this week.  
2. The election shall take place at the start of the Hallowe’en Social at approx. 7-7:30pm.

8.  Executive Meeting

1. An Exec Meeting should take place before E. Igelström steps down, to tie up any loose ends - a Doodle is needed [ACTION: Nogs].

9.  Social

1. Hallowe'en decorations need to be found, and A. Cameron can donate stuff used at the creepy Cinders fundraiser last year.  There shall be bobbing for apples, eg. - the usual Hallowe'en stuff - and the ghost tour is currently being devised. 
2. November Social - to be on a Christmas theme as a night with STaG, Bing Crosby-style putting out a turkey, and Santa will of course make an appearance.  A trip to the theatre could also be organised - for a pantomime, Kings has Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty is at the Citz.  Otherwise there's the Arches, Pavilion, the ballet or the opera.  
3. A food run is needed before Tuesday - Sunday night A. Ciupka and J. Cameron, with A. Rutherford to give them access [ACTION: Aidan, Alex and Cameron].

10.  Board Trip

1. S. Linsley has emailed her uncle and he is willing to lend us his cottage in Northumbria for free between the 10^th and the 25^th of December, only paying the £55 for the cleaner.  To hire a minibus, A. Cameron (between 5th and 8th November?), H. Allan and E. Igelström should be able to do the test, otherwise it's only maybe £10 for the train and a taxi.  To find out about minibuses you should go to the SRC building.  The dates were decide as the 15-18^th December [Board Trip to Northumbria].

11.  AOB

1. D. Hahn has kindly offered to host a Board Christmas dinner at her flat, to be sorted after the timetable comes out for exams.
2. The SN Fundraiser is next Monday [EVENT: SN Fundraiser, Flying Duck, 8pm Mon 29th] - everybody please come after the Board meeting.  It's a swap-shop for any object, and if you don’t bring something you pay 50p more to get in.  A door will be organised [ACTION: Nogs].  A. Rutherford shall try to alter the HB rehearsal at that time (to 5-7pm?) [ACTION: Aidan].
3. Help is needed with setting up the room for the social next Tuesday from 5pm - the band rehearsal may need to be changed [ACTION: Nogs].
4. M. Godden needs a cheque of £100 deposit for NW venue.
5. Keys - M. Godden to go to gatehouse to ask if a backstage person can get another key, and perhaps should try talking to the guy that fixed the light about obtaining a lock on the cupboard (Z. Williams is also emailing) [ACTION: Mabs & Zoe].
6. Proposals for MS2 are to be opened next week.

The date of the next meeting is Monday 29th October, 5:30pm in the STaG Room.

Meeting adjourned.