STaG Minutes Archive

Minutes 06th February 2012

2012-02-08T03:16:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 06/02/2012 In attendance: S. Gregson, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, D. Di Rollo H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, L. Taylor, C. Felstead, D. Keenan, C. BeaumontApologies: L. MonkmanAgenda 1) New Works2) Theatre Trip & Social3) Cinders4) The Girl with Red Hair Post Mortem5) STaG Ball6) Board Event7) Found Spaces/General Discussion1) New WorksThe plans for the cabaret night are well under way – the bar will be stocked, cocktails will be made and acts will be performing (with some coercion from L. Taylor). The STaG room will be decorated from half 5 with material and fairy lights. Posters and flyers have arrived (and look great), a rota will be made for people to do postering/flyering sessions around campus and the city centre. The board and the casts will do this if possible.There have already been some bookings which should increase once the advertising campaign steps up over the next week. L. Taylor will send out plans for the get in and the tech and dress rehearsals – the get in will be on Sunday evening from 19:30. The after party and announcement night emails will be sent out soon.The judges will arrive at 19:15 so L. Taylor can meet and greet as well as answering any questions they may have. She will request they do not talk about the plays until the end of the week.The budget is going ok so far with only one play requesting more money. Memberising is in progress. The SRC gave us £300 towards the event which is brilliant and they also suggested we apply for funds for the Fringe. A door doodle will be sent out this week.2) Theatre Trip & SocialThe theatre trip date will be confirmed once D. Keenan has found the cheapest date for student tickets. The pub quiz will be on the 24th and people should suggest topics to D. Keenan via email. Hoodies will be sold at the social and people will be advised to bring £20 with them if they want one. 3) Cinders A fundraising manager has been found – a meeting will take place on Thursday. The first act has been blocked and a music meeting has been held. Singing rehearsals are in line and a band has been confirmed. A creative team meeting will take place on Tuesday. The trailer will be filmed on the 23rd/24th February so costume can be found by then. Cast issues have been addressed. Character development workshops will be held. Social events have been planned for the cast and crew which is good and people seem to be enjoying themselves. 4) GWRH Post MortemThe board congratulated Mabli and Zoe for their excellent work. The show did very well – selling out each night and making a profit of approximately £120/130. Mabli raised her concerns about not finding a venue until the last minute, she felt this could have been avoided by moving the proposal date so there was more time to look for a suitable space. Whilst the Flying Duck was suitable for the promenade style performance it wasn’t the sort of space originally requested by the directors. Here, issues regarding the concept of Found Spaces were raised (see point 7). The budget went over the orignal estimate by about £2 (after this more money had been applied for so overall, the spending was in budget) however Zoe felt there could have been more control over the spending despite the fact this was a very small expense. It was good not to have to worry as they felt they had an ample budget but perhaps this contributed to the relaxed atmosphere.The publicity budget was seen as slightly too low and so the publicity officer should attend budget meetings in future. Mabli felt they had adequate rehearsal time and enjoyed the process overall.5) STaG BallA committee will be formed so plans can get underway. D. Keenan will book the GUU for shortly after exams finish – most likely the 21st May. It was advised he books a band as soon as possible as well as a photographer and the bar for the GUU. 6) Board EventThis will take place on the 3rd March and the theme is tapas fun. Food ideas will be emailed around. 7) Found Spaces/General Discussion Time constraints of found spaces mean that perhaps venues should be located prior to the rehearsal period. The issue was raised that if non-board members approach spaces it may cause annoyance however, the directors need to have some responsibility for their piece. The space must be viable and creative direction is needed. Proposal deadlines were deemed necessary as otherwise people do not propose. However, the idea was raised of displaying the STaG calendar for the membership – perhaps on the website – so they are aware of when deadlines are coming up and thus have more time to plan out their proposal. The viability of the space should be looked into before accepting the proposal – this will require more discussion and contact between the board and the directors. It should not have to get to the stage where we feel we are settling for a space. It was suggested that a portfolio of previously used spaces (and viable spaces) should be put on the website so people have an idea of what is and is not possible. Found spaces has an experimental quality that not many other STaG productions have and this needs to be preserved. The question was raised whether STaG is reaching a point of saturation – there are too many people interested in seeing small plays so everything is selling out – larger spaces need to be found. This was then counteracted by the fact that larger spaces are expensive and perhaps STaG cannot afford them. There is often low interest in proposals and small scale productions often do not receive a large audition turn out.The issue of putting on more theatre vs quality theatre was raised but heated discussion meant a decision was never reached.

Minutes 30th January 2012

2012-01-31T14:00:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 30/01/2012 In attendance: S. Gregson, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, L. Monkman, D. Di Rollo H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, L. Taylor, C. FelsteadApologies: D. Keenan, C. BeaumontAgenda 1) Cinders2) The Girl with Red Hair3) New Works4) QMU Play5) Social 6) AOB 1) CindersA camera-man has been found and filming will take place on the 10th February so the girls’ costumes need to be sorted by then. There will be a trailer released on the youtube page (and embedded in the website) on the 21st February. The first 3 scenes should be blocked by the end of the week. A publicity meeting has been held and a musical flyering session will take place around the 11th March. This could also be filmed. I. McArthur will hold a flyering workshop with the cast to prepare them for this.Cast changes have been sorted however there remain some issues with cast members not turning up to rehearsals but G. Bennett-Lurie will email the relevant people to warn them this is not acceptable. A design team will be found by next week. The rights for the play are still being chased up and A. Rutherford is awaiting replies. Grants are still being investigated.2) The Girl with Red HairGoing well – the directors are not too worried and are happy with the space. The tech run was fine. A door rota will be emailed out – those on the evening performances should be there by 6:30, those for the matinee should be there at 2pm. A. Rutherford will bring the booking sheet each evening. The posters and flyers should be ready by Tuesday and I. McArthur will flyer on the performance days. Posters will be put up by I. McArthur and H. Bolwell. Tickets are selling quickly which the board was pleased about. 3) New Works The fundraiser on Saturday was successful – approximately £200 was raised however this is not confirmed yet. L. Taylor will try to go to some rehearsals this week as she has not yet had time to do so. The poster is essentially finished, a debate ensued about placing more text on the poster but it is up to L. Taylor to decide following a 50/50 split from the board’s vote. The launch party plans are in progress – so far a date has been confirmed and the STaG room booked. The announcement party will be moved to the 22nd to avoid birthday clashes. There has been no word yet from the RicNic grant and a meeting with the SRC will be held on Wednesday to see about getting some money from them. 4) QMU Play“Cancelled – or rather, postponed” 5) SocialA pub quiz was decided upon – it will be held on the 24th February in the STaG room. Some theatre trips are also being planned.6) AOBH. Allan asked for an exec meeting to be scheduled as one has not been held this semester.Another studio slot has been scheduled – the deadline for applications will the th 11th February.

Minutes 23rd January 2012

2012-01-24T12:04:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 23/01/2012 In attendance: S. Gregson, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, L. Monkman, D. Di Rollo H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, C. Beaumont, L. TaylorApologies: D. Keenan, C. FelsteadAgenda 1) The Girl with the Red Hair2) New Works3) Charity Performance4) Cinders5) QMU 6) Workshop7) Tent Email8) Buying a stag for STaG9) Board Trip10) AOB 1) The Girl with the Red HairRehearsals are going well and a venue has been found – it will be in the Flying Duck however the performance dates have been changed to Thursday, Friday, Saturday due to venue availability. Furthermore, the Saturday performance will now only be a matinee due to cast availability. There has not been a tech meeting yet but A. Rutherford is not worried about this due to having worked in the Flying Duck before. Booking forms etc will be put on the website – A. Rutherford will do this.2) New WorksThe performance days have been chosen and tech and dress slots have been given out (Wednesday – Tent, Thursday – Against the Grain, Friday – After 8, Saturday – Warcry). The fundraiser is on Saturday and L. Taylor is excited. Cones for the food have been ordered and so has plastic cutlery. Hot plates are trying to be sourced to keep the food warm. 100 portions are expected to be served (extra portions costing £1.50) The STaG room will be decorated using tartan fabric/wrapping paper from 6.30pm on Saturday. The food will arrive at 7pm. L. Taylor will be stocking the bar. There have been delays in the poster however it will be done as soon as possible and mock ups for flyers containing information about each show and the festival as a whole have been made. The launch night will be cabaret themed and held on the 10th February – plans are in progress. The announcement night will be the 21st February in the STaG room. An update will be sent to the judges when the poster is done so they can see it.3) Charity Performance Emily Burckhardt asked the board if STaG would be interested in helping with the LGBT performance of the Vagina Monologues at the Flying Duck. She asked for information about it to go in the newsletter. 4) Cinders The play has been cast and the readthrough is this evening. The board were introduced to the ASM.Sources of funding were discussed for example the creative practice fund – this application could take into account the interest of the production for students doing Slavonic studies. C. Beaumont offered to look into grants but the board is encouraged to help if possible. The SRC fund finding service could come in useful. The fundraiser will take place on the 2nd March and the launch night will be on the 15th March - both in the STaG room. A camera man has potentially been found the directors are just waiting for confirmation from him. 5) QMU The new proposed date is the 28th February however the lead in I. McArthur’s cast cannot make this date. She suggested another play is found. The board discussed using the New Works winner. The lack of certainty over the day’s events is concerning and I. McArthur is worried it may result in a poorly organised rehearsal process because of the last minute decisions made. She will email the QMU and ask for more information by Friday so a decision can be made at next week’s meeting. 6) WorkshopThere has been low interest so far, a decision needs to be made whether to continue or not. C. Felstead or S. Gregson will contact Flora to discuss. 7) Tent emailThere is not enough time for STaG and Tent to collaborate due to 6 shows rehearsing at the moment and needing time in the QMU to rehearse. 8) Buying a stag for STaG After a long debate over the merits, the cuteness and the possibility of eating the stag, the board decided not to adopt one. 9) Board TripH. Bolwell researched a trip to Edinburgh or a themed night in Glasgow. The board agreed that the Christmas meal was so lovely a repeat would be great. H. Bolwell will have a think and get back to the board with more plans. 10) AOBImprov tea-time are planning a trip to see the improv night at the stand next week. All are welcome.C. Beaumont asked for those who have not yet paid for their hoodies to do so as soon as possible.D. Di Rollo has set up the STaG youtube channel. Some filming will be done soon.There is a possibility of STaG and the debating society working together in the form of confidence and vocal workshops next term. STaG is interested and so D. Di Rollo will pass this on to the debating society (stressing that next year’s board may think differently to this year’s)

Minutes 16th January 2012

2012-01-18T07:26:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 16/01/2012In attendance: S. Gregson, C. Felstead, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, D. Keenan, L. Monkman, D. Di Rollo H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, C. Beaumont Apologies: L. TaylorAgenda1) Cinders2) The Girl with the Red Hair3) New Works4) Mark Westbrook5) QMU6) Hoodies7) Social8) Board Trip9) GU Amnesty10) Workshop11) Board Rep Role12) AOB1) CindersThere was a low turn out for auditionees today however it is hoped this will increase tomorrow. E. Igelstrom will cover H. Allan’s 4-5 shift tomorrow. The SPACE has been booked and it was decided that the Saturday matinee should begin at 2pm. There are forms to fill in eg a risk assessment form but these will be done as soon as possible. The ticket prices are going to be set at £8 full price or £6 for concessions. The budget meeting will take place at 2pm on Tuesday. G. Bennett-Lurie needs to write a blurb for the SPACE but this could be the same one that was in the newsletter. The times for the get-in etc need to be emailed to the SPACE at least 2 weeks before the performances. We are able to send posters to the venue that will be put up inside. A publicity meeting will take place on Thursday.A camera-person still has not been found so it was suggested Cut! or GUST could be asked.2) The Girl with the Red HairS. Gregson has still not had a confirmation from the venue, if we cannot get one by the end of the week other options will be considered (eg the Cloisters)I. McArthur will meet the poster designer tomorrow to see the finished piece.3) New WorksFeedback should have been sent by now however with the absence of L. Taylor the board was unsure whether this has been done. The grant form has been completed and so will be sent off soon. The bar will be stocked by D. Keenan and some helpers byt Thursday for the meet and greet. The board are encouraged to attend this if possible. The Burns fundraiser will be advertised in the newsletter. Mock ups for the poster have been done.4) Mark WestbrookSTaG need to investigate how much he was paid as there is possibly £100 missing from the account – this could be a banking error. There does not appear to be much interest in a second round of workshops as far as the board is aware. There has also been no further discussion of the collaboration between STaG and Mark. 5) QMUThe date suggested was unsuitable for STaG so C. Felstead has asked if there are any others. STaG is waiting to hear back.6) HoodiesPeople should have brought £20 for W. Foote. It was decided that something should go in the newsletter advising people they can pre-order (and pay for) hoodies at the next social as that way we can order what we need. 7) SocialIt could be at the end of February due to New Works clashes. D. Keenan has looked into various theatre trip possibilities too.8) Board TripThe best date seems to be the 3rd-4th March. The board should keep this available. H. Bolwell will investigate further. 9) GU AmnestySTaG need not contribute anymore.10) WorkshopsC. Felstead has emailed Flora to see if she is still interested in hosting one. She said yes so the GU has been booked for the 26th January between 5 and 7pm. 11) Board Rep RoleThis role needs more structure to it as nobody has a clear idea of what it is. It is similar to the role of stage-manager but less involved. It is concerning that some BRs may be too involved with the show. It was decided they shouldn’t be too creatively involved but instead should help with general organisation such as fundraisers. They should also be a general point of help for the cast and crew with any questions or concerns they may have in relation to STaG or the rehearsal that they may feel uncomfortable asking the director. The BR should attend read-throughs, social events and meetings so they can be seen as approachable. It is also important that they are able to keep track of the progress of the play and report back to the board.“Know everything, do nothing” (Like a bird watcher)12) AOBH. Bolwell will look into adopting a stag as a pet/mascot for the society.D. Di Rollo suggested a STaG youtube channel, which would show clips/teasers of shows and rehearsals. He is happy to film these things and edit them.

Minutes 9th January 2012

2012-01-09T14:41:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 09/01/2012In attendance: S. Gregson, C. Felstead, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, D. Keenan, L. Monkman, L. Taylor, D. Di Rollo H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, C. Beaumont Agenda1) Cinders2) The Girl with the Red Hair3) New Works4) QMU Play5) Mark Westbrook Collaboration6) Social7) University Publicity8) Archive9) Community Theatre10) Various STaG Groups11) Board Trip12) Radio Play13) AOB1) CindersThe GUU has been booked for auditions which will take place 11-3 on January 16th and 3-6 on the 17th. Board members will be on hand to help auditionees. The SPACE has been booked for the 21st-24th March. Meetings for publicity and budget are yet to be organised. A meeting will take place between the directors and the board rep (C. Beaumont) to discuss the production this week. The crew and those involved in the play will meet the board on the 23rd January. A tech meeting has been held and the crew is being put together by A. Rutherford. 2) The Girl with the Red HairThe read-through will take place this evening and H. Bolwell will attend. There is still an issue with finding a venue however S. Gregson has some leads – St Mungo’s is due to respond to give their decision soon. Publicity and budget meetings have been held.3) New Works4 Judges have been confirmed so far and the plays have been chosen. L. Taylor is really excited about the prospect of the festival and is organising a casual meet up for those involved and the board, this will be held on the 19th January most likely in Coopers. A Burns Nights themed fundraiser will be held on the 28th January in the STaG room. A poster idea has been decided upon and publicity plans will be made soon. Grants are going to be applied for tomorrow and feedback for individuals is being sent out. L. Taylor will choose the show nights fairly soon.4) QMU PlayA date still has not been confirmed although I. McArthur is ready just in case. If there is no response to our emails however, we will have to pull out due to inadequate communication. 5) Mark Westbrook CollaborationThe venue is to be confirmed but Mark has chosen a play although due to the small cast size he is thinking of various ways to include more people. He will attend a meeting (possibly next week) to discuss. 6) SocialA rough plan of pubs to visit will be made and the board should wear their STaG t-shirts/hoodies. Donal is looking into theatre trips for this term.7) University PublicityI. McArthur will send a list of places to put posters up.8) ArchiveD. Di Rollo, C. Felstead, C. Goldstone are interested in helping do some archiving and there has been 1 membership response too. D. Di Rollo will organise it further.9) Community TheatreI. McArthur will pass on a list of school contacts to D. Di Rollo who will think of ideas for next week’s meeting. 10) STaG GroupsImprov teatime, the reading group and the writers group will all continue this term. 11) Board TripAnother doodle will be sent out for availability later on in the term. The board MUST fill this out.12) RadioplayIt has been suggested we do a radioplay in conjunction with Subcity. Jassy Earl will propose a play and seems very keen on doing this13) AOBSTaG will buy some lights and a dimmer rack for £125. This was applauded as being a good deal

Minutes 12/12/11

2012-01-09T14:00:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 12.12.11In attendance: C. Beaumont, G. Bennet-Lurie, H. Bolwell, D. Di Rollo, C. Felstead, W. Foote, C. Goldstone, S. Gregson, E. Igelström, D. Keenan, I. McArthur, L. Monkman, L. Taylor, A. Rutherford, T. PennockAlso in attendance: J. Payne, A. McKay, I. Stirling, S. T-HylandApologies: H. Allan (taking minutes – I.McArthur)Agenda1. Housekeeping2. Much Ado About Nothing Post-Mortem3. New Mainstage Proposal: Cinders4. New Works update5. A.O.B1. Housekeeping: i. C. Felstead commended the positive effect of the review of Much Ado About Nothing in Glasgow University Magazine. ii. McArthur confirmed the availability of the cast of STaG Nights production Running Lines for the Queen Margaret Union showcase. C. Felstead will pass on the date and specific venue of this event as soon as these were confirmed by the organiser. iii. It was agreed that the retrieval of the STaG table and chair from D. Di Rollo’s apartment was best left until the new year. Specifically, this will take place before the first board meeting of the year on Monday 9th January, when the board members will meet at the apartment, at 4:45pm, in order to move the furniture to the STaG room and subsequently proceed with the meeting. iv. L. Taylor adeptly calculated the owed costs of the STaG board Christmas meal and all present confirmed they were happy they had received all money owed to them.2. Much Ado About Nothing Post-Mortem i. C. Felstead commended all those involved on a successful production. ii. J. Payne (director) was asked to deliver any feedback and commented that STaG as a society were ‘very organised’, he acknowledged that putting on the show was a challenge and congratulated the board specifically on a good job. He underlined the importance of mainstage directors past and present sharing their thoughts and what they had learnt from their own experiences with each other, for the betterment of future mainstages. J. Payne agreed that he would be happy to pass on any advice to the directors of the next mainstage. I. McArthur confirmed she would follow this up shortly after the meeting. J. Payne commented on the good turn-out for the show’s auditions, although the problem of other groups and societies disrupting the process by moving through the booked space was raised. It was agreed that the possibility of having an attendant on the door of the space to only allow people through in between auditions would be considered in the future. J. Payne admitted that two and a half hours worth of text to rehearse created a tight schedule and a lot of work. It was agreed that, without any specific limit, future mainstage directors would be advised to keep shows to two hours, or carefully consider the amount of text that needed to be rehearsed within their specific time constraints. iii. The S.P.A.C.E - J. Payne pointed out a number of merits of The S.P.A.C.E venue used for the production. He acknowledged, however, that the experience for the audience is less than ideal in a number of ways. Additionally, H. Bolwell pointed out that the environment for the actors was lacking in some respects, including an uncomfortably cold backstage area and poor sound proofing. A. Rutherford made the relevant suggestion that SMs should visit spaces before every mainstage. Other issues about noise pollution and the building itself were raised, but L. Taylor, having had a number of personal dealings with the staff, assured the board that they were aware of the problems and formal complaints/renovation arrangements were being made. It was agreed that, despite some teething problems, The S.P.A.C.E would continue to be a good venue for the society to use in the future. C. Felstead felt strongly that the staff at the venue should make it clear to audience members, at the point of buying drinks at the bar, that these cannot be taken into the space. It was also pointed out that the toilets were in a bad condition, for both audience and actors. These will be passed on in the way of polite requests when using the space in the future. H. Bolwell additionally pointed out that the use of certain exits by actors, specific to each show, is worth passing on to ushers who may otherwise seat members of the audience in such as a way as to inconvenience the actors.iv. I. Stirling (assistant director) was asked to deliver any feedback and commented that a meeting between the central production team and the board earlier on in the process would have been beneficial. It transpired that this issue has been raised in the past and the president made a note that it was not to be forgotten. v. A. McKay (stage manager) was asked to deliver any feedback and commented that roles within the production team need to be clearly defined at the start of a production and the board agreed that any mainstage directors should be strongly advised to take on both an SM and asst. SM. The possibility of creating an SM pack was raised, with concerns about the potential impracticality of this also voiced. It was concluded that face-to-face meetings were the most beneficial way to exchange the important information about this role, with a ‘pack’ potentially benefitting STaG in the future, when the current membership is no longer present.vi. With regards to ticket sales, C. Falstead identified the problem of audience members being able to easily cancel their ticket bookings, to free up spaces for others. It was agreed that the most logical solution was to offer a cancellation email address in an automated confirmation email send to all those making bookings. T. Pennock agreed this was, in theory, technically possible.vii. Amidst the various points made in anonymous feedback from those involved, a good camaraderie was commended amongst the cast, but less so for the crew. After discussion it was agreed that, although it was not entirely practical to get all crew members involved in rehearsals and socials as early as cast, the director must make a good job of introducing his crew to his cast properly, and creating an atmosphere conducive to mutual respect.viii. Concerns were raised about SMs working on two productions at once, and the workload taken on whilst doing this. It was concluded that with a shortage of good SMs and the potential differences in personality from person to person, it was impractical to suggest a limit to ambitious SMs.ix. The board rep for this production was commended for her positivity and incredible hard work. It was pointed out, however, that she carried out a number of jobs that should not have fallen to her. J. Payne felt that the role occupied by the board rep was similar to that which would have been filled by a production manager. It was agreed that the possibility to define a production manager role should be discussed by the board with regards to specific shows in the future.x. T. Pennock praised the team on producing such a concise list of spending at the end of the piece. A profit of £150 was reported.3. New Mainstage Proposal: Cindersi. G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland gave a brief synopsis of their proposed piece. They pointed out, despite some harrowing subject matter, the potential for a quite uplifting, positive final scene and therefore overall feel for the piece. Some technical requests were outlined, the potential expense of impracticality of some of these were discussed, and G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland expressed their willingness to be flexible about their artistic ideas, particularly with regards to technical aspects. Some questions were asked about the practicality of filming alongside rehearsals and the potential for any poor-quality film to distract from onstage action rather than simply complement it. G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland explained they were aware of this, the board offered a number of suggestions with regards to film experts and enthusiasts who may be able to help with the production, should it go ahead. The expense of finding matching costumes for the schoolgirl characters was raised as a potential issue, which G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland explained could be overcome by a simple pinafore design or similar going on top of varying outfits. The issue of finding age-appropriate actors was raised, G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland believe their workshop-style rehearsals will help build character in such a way that this casting issue is more easily overcome. G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland reassured the board that they will consider the splitting of their workload very carefully and in detail. The role and dramatic use of ‘realism’, ‘music’, relevant Polish political history and so on were discussed. G. Bennett-Lurie and S. Hyland explained that singing, with itself, will not form an important part of the audition process, although actors will be made aware of their need to feel comfortable singing. The requirement for a musical director was highlighted.ii. A unanimous vote was given in favour of the proposal.iii. The feedback to be sent was agreed on. This included importance of using the time over Christmas for planning and development of ideas, the unlikelihood of being able to afford gauze specifically, the benefits of choosing a more specific historical setting for the piece, more in-depth consideration of how music should inform the piece dramatically. iv. Charlie Beaumont volunteered and will be the board rep for this production. v. After problems contacting Cottiers Theatre, it was decided that The S.P.A.C.E was the chosen venue for this mainstage.vi. The possibility of doing an extra night, and the benefits of scheduling production week on different dates were discussed. A vote was taken to decide whether the production should run for four or five performances. A majority of 9 votes in favour of five performances. The extra performance will be a Saturday matinée, in addition to four evening performances Wednesday to Saturday. A second vote was taken to decide whether to schedule performance week for week commencing 12th March or week commencing 19th March. The majority abstained. The discussion was re-opened and after it being pointed out that beginning a week later allowed more time for rehearsal with an already tight schedule, the vote taken again, with a majority of 8 voting in favour of scheduling the production for week commencing the 19th March.4. New Works updatei. L. Taylor requested some help researching and suggesting new potential judges over the holidays. A number of suggestion were made at the meeting itself, L. Taylor agreed to re-contact those judges who still had not confirmed their availability with a polite request for a decision, in readiness to potentially ask new candidates to fill the positions. L. Taylor also put forward a fundraiser idea whereby writers put forward 10-15 minute scenes anonymously, potentially allowing the writing group to team-up with the improv teatime regulars. T. Pennock confirmed that, despite stepping down from his role as financial secretary, he will try to continue running the improv teatime alongside E. Igelström and another member of STaG.5. A.O.Bi. T. Pennock updated the board on the society’s finances and reported a healthy balance, with a recent overall profit of £300. Several productions were commended on all their efforts in raising this amount. ii. C. Falstead reminded board remembers to fill in the Doodle to make the availability known for the STaG board trip.iii. H. Bolwell passed on a request from the directors of The Girl with the Red Hair to get more information about venue a.s.a.p from S. Gregson. A. Rutherford seconded the importance of this. S. Gregson agreed to acquiesce this request and get in touch with the necessary parties. H. Bolwell further pointed out the directors’ requests for a different assignment of roles to that used in Much Ado About Nothing whereby there is no ‘creative team’.iv. T. Pennock pointed out that the STaG library perhaps needs better promotion and care. He also reminded the board that with the changeover of financial secretary, there remains only a certain amount of time before cheques are invalid. E. Igelström made a note of this, confirming that he would include a warning about this for the membership in the newsletter.v. With regards to the newsletter, S. Gregson raised the issue of the missing image. The website team acknowledged this problem and A. Rutherford will carry out the necessary maintenance.END

Minutes 5th December 2011

2011-12-07T06:19:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 28/11/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, C. Felstead, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, D. Keenan, L. Monkman, L. Taylor, D. Di Rollo H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, T. Pennock,

Also in attendance: C. Beaumont, M. Godden, S. Linsley

Agenda
1) Financial Sec.
2) Found Spaces Proposal
3) Much Ado
4) New Works
5) QM Play
6) Social
7) Hoodies
8) Secret Santa/Board Christmas

1) Financial Sec.
C. Beaumont was in attendance and outlined why he felt he would be a good addition to the board. He feels confident with decision-making, time management and with numbers!
1.1) SRC Issue
There was a discussion about how to arrange a vote to elect C.
Beaumont as the SRC constitution states we must have one. It was decided that we could have the ballot box at the social on Friday. The board felt 3 days was enough advertising time. This will be advertised in the newsletter along with the manifesto.

2) Found Spaces
‘The Girl with the Red Hair’ was proposed by M. Godden and S. Linsley. They would like to perform it around the necropolis although anywhere with a graveyard would be suitable too. The piece will be partly devised using the script as a starting point. There is a large female oriented cast.
They would like a stage manager although with two directors the role will not be too intensive. The auditions could be held before Christmas with intensive rehearsals afterwards.
The board agreed this was a good proposal and so H. Bolwell will be the board rep and send feedback.
There was a debate about religious angst and so if it is a church space, the church will be given a copy of the script so they can decide if they see it as being suitable.

3) Much Ado
The performance was a success with an approximate £150 profit although a full financial breakdown will be given next week. G. Bennett-Lurie will invite the directors and the stage manager to the post mortem next week. The evaluation form will be circulated and expected back by Friday.

4) New Works
L. Taylor is emailing more potential judges after someone said they were too busy to do it. The contract for the space has been signed.

5) QM Play
This will be on January 12th – possibly. The play chosen is Running Lines and I. McArthur will email her cast to check availability.

6) Social
The room will be decorated from 4pm on Friday. D. Keenan will dress as Santa and pose for photos. The bar will be stocked by E. Igelstrom and T. Pennock. There will be a £20 budget for decorations and food.

7) Hoodies
W. Foote will fill out the form and order them. Will order 14 so far to gauge interest

8) STaG Christmas
Everybody has a secret santa to buy for. People should bring a plate, glass and cutlery to Dom’s. If everybody makes a note of how much they have spent then this can be divided up and people can be reimbursed/give money at next week’s meeting.
Meat eaters should give I. McArthur £2.50 for the turkey.

Minutes 21st November 2011

2011-12-03T08:28:00.001-08:00

Minutes of STaG board meeting
Monday, 21st November 2011.
In attendance: C. Felstead, D. Di Rollo, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Keenan, E. Igelstrom, A. Rutherford, L. Monkman, C. Goldstone, S. Gregson, I. MacArthur.
Apologies: H. Bolwell, H. Allan, W. Foote, T. Pennock, L. Taylor
1. STaG Nights post mortem
The board agreed that STaG Nights was brilliant, and congratulated everyone.
There were some issues with room bookings, where a few directors were approached directly about changing bookings to accommodate mainstage requirements, without L. Monkman’s approval. When several shows are going on, those that have already booked rehearsal times should be prioritised. A publicity interview was scheduled by a cast member without L. Monkman’s or I. MacArthur’s awareness.
One play was highly underprepared at the tech and dress rehearsal, causing stress for L. Monkman and A. Rutherford, and the response when this was brought up at the time was felt to be unsatisfactory. It was agreed that the relevant member(s) should be contacted with feedback. C. Felstead will send them an email explaining the board’s concerns, after sending it to the board for approval.
The scheduling of plays during the semester has been an issue. The close proximity of shows, primarily Closer and STaG Nights, caused problems with commitment and room bookings, as well as a very high workload for A. Rutherford. The studio slot should be moved earlier in the future. The scheduling of each year should not just be up to the new board; the outgoing board should make a provisional schedule for the following year. It was suggested that the Technical Manager position should be held by two people, to make the workload more manageable.
General problems with budget meetings were brought up. It is difficult for directors to say how much money they need, without knowing the budgets of previous shows, or the present state of STaG’s finances. The way these meetings are held might need revising.
The SRC grant application was never submitted. It needs to be made more clear who is responsible for applying for grants (such as the Financial Secretary, or the General Secretary). This should be discussed at a future meeting. Because cheques are cumbersome, it should be looked into whether there are other banks that could offer other services (e.g. debit cards). C. Felstead or T. Pennock will look into this.
L. Monkman and A. Rutherford were disappointed with board involvement in the STaG Nights committee. STaG Nights should perhaps be included on the Freshers’ Week flyers.
Both The Flying Duck and The Old Hairdressers (where a fundraiser was held) were excellent venues, inexpensive and keen to collaborate with STaG. L. Monkman encouraged continuing to develop our relationship with these and other similar venues. The van man was also brilliant.
C. Felstead will organise the writing of a stage manager pack. Since this role varies greatly from production to production, it may be difficult to condense into a pack, but there should at least be an outline of the different kinds of tasks that might be expected.
Due to issues with commitment, the board discussed whether there should be a rule about how many productions members should be involved with at the same time. It was decided that there should not be a rule, but directors should be conscious of the problem when casting. Audition forms should possibly ask what other plays actors are involved in. C. Felstead will amend the directors pack.
STaG Nights made around £400.
A few actors were not memberised, due to communication issues. In the future, E. Igelstrom will attend read-throughs for memberisation earlier in the process.
The board discussed whether there should be a separate board rep for STaG Nights. L. Monkman and A. Rutherford felt that adding another person might only make communication more complicated, rather than solve any problems. However, night reps should be more involved. It was decided that the board rep question will be up to future VP STaG Nights, but that L. Monkman should mention the possibility in the STaG Nights pack.
There should be no informal waiting lists or reservations for cancelled tickets on the night. Rather, they should be given to people who show up on a first-come-first-served basis. Limited capacity should be kept in mind when publicising, and directors should be encouraged to advise their cast to book tickets in advance. L. Monkman will include this in the STaG Nights pack.
2. Much Ado
There have been issues with communication among the production team, and delegation has not worked smoothly. However, production issues aside, things are going very well from an acting and social point of view.
A. Rutherford is very concerned about the production’s progression. Some set needs to be rebuilt, there is a massive props list, and there have been uncertainties about the completion of the music. Paul will rebuild the set. There may also be issues with the budget.
I. MacArthur has posters and flyers, and will organise publicising and delegate tasks to the board. The cast will not be asked to flyers, as they have enough to do. The poster will be sent out to the mailing list.
The fundraiser is being organised by a cast member. Refreshments will be acquired.
3. Social
The November social is taking place at The Stand. Board members were reminded to book tickets.
4. New Works
L. Taylor has emailed out a draft proposal form and a list of judges being contacted.
The ticket money from A Stone’s Throw at the Fringe has been received. In total, the show made a loss of about £1600 pounds.
5. Board excursion
Ice skating at George Square will occur at 7pm, followed by dinner at Stereo at 8. G. Bennett-Lurie will send out an email.

Minutes 28th November 2011

2011-12-02T04:03:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 28/11/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, C. Felstead, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, C. Goldstone, D. Keenan, L. Monkman, L. Taylor, D. Di Rollo

Apologies: H. Bolwell, A. Rutherford, W. Foote, T. Pennock,
Agenda

1) Much Ado
2) Email response
3) New Works
4) Social
5) STaG Clean up
6) Christmas meal

1) Much Ado
The music has been finished and the production seems to be developing well. The fundraiser raised over £200 which is brilliant. The tech budget has gone over by about £120 but hopefully this can be made back by ticket sales etc. The doors rota has been done and C. Felstead will email this out. Reviewers are coming from GUM, The Guardian, The Skinny and a freelance journalist is coming too. There is no photographer for definite but this will be chased up. There is still no venue for the aftershow party but C. Goldstone will ask Aileen if she has a venue.

2) Email response
The board regrets the way the email was handled however they do not feel they were overtly offensive or dealt with the response badly. We had no anticipated causing any offence.
In the future we feel it will be more proactive to meet face to face after full board feedback on any situations similar to this. The important thing to remember is that people need the chance to have their response as well.
It is not our aim to upset anybody.
STaG as a society is built upon mutual respect and we aim to promote this within the society thus making it a positive experience for all.

3) New Works
1 judge has confirmed so far and lots of people have been contacted. Fundraiser plans are in progress and L. taylor is thinking about poster ideas too. The studio space will be used for the performances rather than the cabaret space as well. There is interest from the writer’s group as well – C. Goldstone has offered to help people with their proposals.

4) Social
Christmas party in the STaG room on the 9th December. There will be a father Christmas appearance. The theme is ‘boozy children’s Christmas party’ so there will be games and treats.

5) Clean up
It is on Sunday 4th December at 3pm. Belongins should be collected before then.

6) Christmas Meal
10th December, 4pm, Dom’s flat.
Secret santa will be organised by C. Felstead with a £5 limit on spending. A card should also be written (but not signed) so you can guess who it is from.
Issy: Turkey, Meat Gravy, Veggie Gravy, Cranberry Sauce
Dom: Roast Potatoes, Mulled Wine (with help from others when we get there), Lasagne for starter
Sam and Cerne: Veggie Main, Creamy Leeks
Lisa: Meat stuffing and Veggie stuffing.
Catherine: Carrots, Parsnips, (maybe added fish dish)
Harriet A: Veggie Soup for Starter
Donal: Pigs in Blankets
Erik: Something Traditionally Swedish
Lucy: Cake
Aidan: Christmas pudding
Please bring cutlery and a plate as there may not be enough.
A Christmas playlist will be made and the board are expected to dress “Christmassy”
BYOB

Minutes 14th November 2011

2011-11-15T06:41:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 14/11/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, G. Bennett-Lurie, H. Allan, I. McArthur, Erik Igelstrom, W. Foote

Apologies: L. Monkman, L. Taylor, H. Bolwell, D. Di Rollo, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, D. Keenan

Also in attendance: James Yates

Agenda

1) Closer Post Mortem
2) STaG Nights
3) Much Ado
4) Financial Secretary Position
5) New Works
6) Posters for other unis
7) Mainstage
8) Hoodies
9) AOB

1) Closer Post Mortem
The anonymous feedback received was all very positive and people were impressed with the standard of the performance. (Cue applause from the board!) J. Yates thought it went well as did S. Gregson however he would have liked more time to get it ready and wondered if this could be possible in future. The STaG room was thought to be good as a space however obviously, play choice is limited because of the restrictions of the room. It was discussed that at auditions it should be made clear whether people may have to act in situations they are uncomfortable with – eg kissing/undressing – however nobody in the performance was bothered by their roles. J. Yates appreciated the director’s pack and suggested that help for writing the newsletter blurb could be added.
The role of board rep was felt to be a bit lacking because there was some confusion as S. Gregson is also on the board however the board discussed the importance of having a neutral presence that actors/tech can go to if they have a problem. Both S. Gregson and Y. Yates were disappointed with a low audition turnout however it was suggested this could have been due to the close proximity of STaG Nights auditions. It must also be emphasised that people should only commit to what they can manage as there was a drop out quite late on. A general 2 plays at a time rule should be enforced to help combat dropouts.
There were some noise/painting issues with the MSA and in future the door should be kept closed to minimise noise and the fire exit and both windows should be opened to let the fumes out. They MUST be closed afterwards though!
There is an estimated profit of £110.

2) STaG Nights
The door rota should be sorted by now and people have been told their days. The money-box will be swapped about between people on the door for that night they will also take responsibility for counting the takings and keeping the float. It looks as though it may sell out quite fast. No venue has been confirmed for an aftershow yet but it could be at T. Pennock and E. Igelstrom’s flat. Another possible venue is the STaG room in which case the bar will need stocked. All the flyers have been handed out and the posters are going up. I. McArthur thanked those who had done this already. Memberising is in progress. The SRC grant was never chased up but T. Pennock said due to the huge amount of fundraising it is not vital we have it.

3) Much Ado
G. Bennett-Lurie went to a rehearsal and said it is going well and the atmosphere is really positive. The social opportunites are good as well and the cast is socialising well. Aileen is sorting props and anything they do not have by Tuesday will be advertised in the newsletter. Set is coming along although some of it will need rebuilt due to safety concerns so help will be drafted in. So far £34.50 has been spent. Josh needs 4 blackout sheets but G. Bennett-Lurie will ask L. Taylor if the space has any we can use but if not what STaG has should be fine. Music will be ready by Saturday. Josh will be spoken to about communication with his team – especially Aileen as she has expressed frustration at not knowing all that is going on. The fundraiser is on the 25th November and is casino themed. People will pay £3 which will be exchanged for chips to play with in games. The poster is nearly finished there are just some formatting issues that need addressed.

4) Financial Secretary Position
T. Pennock announced his resignation from the board to great dismay from the rest of the board who all expressed how much they will miss him and his hatred of fun. However, the position needs to be advertised in the newsletter. STaG will meet the people who apply on the 5th December so the deadline for applications will be the 2nd December. T. Pennock will write the blurb highlighting the general board role as well as the specifics of the position.

5) New Works
L. Taylor has many leads for judges and is emailing them all.

6) Posters for other unis
They have been printed and will go up soon.

7) Mainstage
S. Gregson was reminded by C. Felstead that he needs to contact venues to discuss costs etc. There are no proposals yet.

8) Hoodies
C. Felstead suggested bringing them back to which most of the board was in agreement. W. Foote will look into cost and styles however they should be black with orange logos as an orange hoody is not what anybody wants to wear…

9) AOB
There is a font issue on the website – A. Rutherford will be asked to have a look.
A leaving do for T. Pennock should be arranged

Minutes 7th November 2011

2011-11-08T06:25:00.001-08:00

Minutes 07/11/2011

In attendance: H. Allan, H. Bolwell, L. Taylor, C. Felstead, S. Gregson, T. Pennock, E. Igelstrom, L. Monkman, I. McArthur, W. Foote, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone

Apologies: G. Bennet-Lurie, D. Keenan

Agenda
1) Much Ado
2) Closer
3) STaG Nights
4) Other Unis poster
5) Social
6) New Works
7) Board Trip
8) STaG Studio
9) AOB

1) Much Ado
Poster design has been passed back and forth a few times and looks as though it is nearly finished. The set building is going well and Josh is pleased with it. Ideas for a fundraiser are being talked about and the board will be updated. STaG will handle the bookings and box office rather than the venue doing it.

2) Closer
Posters have been finished and printed. Actors are nearly off script, C. Felstead expressed the need for this to happen asap! L. Taylor and H. Allan will be on the door on Wednesday and T. Pennock and C. Goldstone will do it on Thursday. Tech and dress will be Wednesday during the day. So far £40 of the budget has been spent

3) STaG Nights
The launch party went well and raised £171.99. T. Pennock and L. Monkman are still chasing up the SRC grant and will speak to them on Tuesday. Postering should be done asap - a rota is being emailed out and posters are available for collection from the STaG room. A flyering doodle will be sent out and the board should fill it in. Night reps are going to rehearsals to time the shows. L. Monkman will book a van to move props etc. Music is going well even though a singer has dropped out.

4) Other Uni posters
Not printed but will be probably by Tuesday.

5) Social
The stand costs £2 and it is possible to reserve tickets online or get them on the door. The board discussed a pantomime as a christmas-style theatre trip.

6) New Works
L. Taylor has a few ideas for judges in mind. She is emailing people asking if they would be interested. The proposal form is a work in progress.

7) Board Trip
Ice skating on the 26th and then dinner at Stereo. G. Bennett-Lurie will book a table.

8) STaG Studio
L. Taylor looked into scaffolding but was a bit overwhelmed at all the types on offer. A. Rutherford will have a look. I. McArthur will send information on grants to the board who should look through them. C. Felstead suggested that this year's board gets the ball rolling for next year's.

9) AOB
S. Gregson spoke to the gate about the keys and was told to speak to estates and buildings - he will do this and find out how much another key will cost.
The archive committee should be formed (as it is in the constitution). D. Di Rollo will head it and look for interest in joining.
C. Felstead will send out a doodle for an exec meeting.

Minutes 31st October 2011

2011-11-08T06:24:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting 31/10/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, H. Allan, I. McArthur, D. Keenan, Erik Igelstrom, L. Monkman, L. Taylor, W. Foote

Apologies: H. Bolwell

Agenda

1) Closer
2) Much Ado
3) Other Uni Posters
4) November Social
5) Board Trip
6) New Works
7) STaG Nights
8) STaG Room Policy
9) AOB

1) Closer
S. Gregson said so far the rehearsals are on schedule but there is no publicity or set so far. Set will be being built on Wednesday and posters will be finished and printed soon. 20 colour posters will be done. The get in for the room is TBC and a doodle will be sent out to find availability.

2) Much Ado
Josh has emailed his cast stressing the importance of punctuality at rehearsals. The deadline for music is coming up soon. The poster will be completed this week. Publicity in newspapers etc has been sent out and some confirmations have been received. Online booking needs to be set up as soon as possible. Memberising is in progress and Josh will be encouraged to socialise more with the cast. There are no fundraiser ideas yet.

3) Other Uni Posters
100 will be printed by Monday.

4) November Social
The board agreed going to The Stand for the comedy on a Tuesday would be good. The date was decided as being the 22nd November. Another theatre trip should also be organised soon.

5) Board Trip
C. Felstead stressed that everyone must fill out the doodle. Most of the board don’t mind where the trip is so it was suggested that we could go ice skating or for a meal or both?

6) New Works
There are no judges yet but L. taylor has had various ideas and is in the process of contacting people. She will start writing a press pack and a proposal form. It will be advertised in the newsletter after STaG Nights and a committee will be formed before Christmas. The deadline for proposals is the 5th Jan and they will be decided upon on the 8th Jan.

7) STaG Nights
The posters will be collected on Wednesday. L. Monkman is going to the Old Hairdressers on Wednesday to look at the space before the launch party. Subcity Djs have been confirmed. It is on from 19:30-00:00 due to licensing laws. There will be rehearsals in the Flying Duck next week. Help is needed to poster and to set up at the launch party. There is no news regarding grants yet. T. Pennock will meet with the SRC to talk about funding.

8) STaG Room Policy
The board decided that if a booking is made without a contact number then the booking is automatically void. Furthermore, if the project is non-STaG then the people making the booking must contact S. Gregson directly to arrange it.

9) AOB
The website meeting is on Wednesday at 5:30pm in the Jura Room in the library.
The 2nd mainstage will be discussed and a location needs to be found. S. Gregson will look into possible venues.

Minutes 24th October 2011

2011-10-27T01:50:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 24/10/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, D. Keenan, Erik Igelstrom, L. Taylor, H. Bolwell, W. Foote

Apologies: L. Monkman, I. McArthur, H. Allan,
1) Much Ado About Nothing
2) STaG Nights
3) Closer
4) Stroke Association
5) Social
6) Poster for other unis
7) NSDF
8) Board Trip
9) Memberising
10) Gavin’s Proposal
11) AOB: Website, FB, Mainstage deadline

1) Much Ado About Nothing: Update- all is going well. Communication seems better. Josh no-longer playing the music himself. Contract needs to be signed by cast. A. Rutherford held creative team meeting yesterday. Need to remind Josh about fundraising ideas. Josh must run the date by the Board first to make sure there are no clashes. T. Pennock to get in touch about budget so far and get an overview of how it’s going. E. Igelstrom has cast list and will memberise this week. Bonding drinks for cast and crew still to come but Josh knows about this.

2) STaG Nights: With L. Monkman and I. McArthur missing, the board were not sure yet if posters had gone to printers. L. Monkman looking to find/rent ‘tractors’ (DJ equipment) for the social on 5th Nov. Booking form to go up on website, T. Pennock will look into this. Fundraiser last week went amazingly well – raised £369.49. T. Pennock to speak to L. Monkman about possibility increasing budget on the basis of the very good fundraising. The board we’re not sure if L.Monkman had received any information about the grants applied for. T. Pennock to contact SRC about possible meeting about grant for STaG Nights. E. Igelstrom will contact L.Monkman for cast and crew lists for memberising. Musical rehearsals are underway and going well.

3) Closer: One actor has dropped out, so director’s looking for a new actor. As no other male actors auditioned and considering the lack of time, the directors will ring around and approach people face-to-face to try and fill the position. H.Bolwell suggested cushions and beanbags in front rows to increase capacity in the STaG Room and improve sight-lines for those sat at the back. S.Gregson and D.Keenan will try and fit chairs into STaG Room to figure out capacity. This will be done asap so that the booking form can go up on the website. T. Pennock is to have a budget meeting asap. S. Gregson highlighted the possibility of getting set designers involved. I. McArthur must have a publicity meeting asap. S. Gregson will send E.Igelstrom cast list for memberising.

4) Stroke Association: D. Di Rollo will email those who were interested to see if they are still on board. If they are on board still then S.Gregson and D. DiRollo will organise meetings for Sunday. If they are no longer interested D. Di Rollo will reply to Kirsty asap apologising.

5) Social: D.Keenan will not be available to attend the social but will sort out all prep during the daytime. L.Taylor will pick up the projector. D. Keenan was given a budget by T. Pennock of max £15 to buy decorations for the social. Any board members who are able to help should meet in the STaG Room on Tuesday at 1pm to decorate and carve pumpkins. G. Bennet-Lurie and D. Keenan will stock the bar.

6) Posters for other unis: As I.McArthur was not present it was unclear whether posters to distribute at other universities have gone to print yet.

7) NSDF: L. Taylor is to send out the letter about NSDF to all productions so far this year to advertise the opportunity to them. C. Felstead will email Durham with questions about their festival.

8) Board Trip: Due to lack of time the overnight trip will be held during second semester. However a daytrip will be held sometime before Christmas holiday. G. Bennet-Lurie highlighted that board members should fill in the doodle to find a day that suits all. Suggested trips included: M&Ds, bowling, ice skating, laser quest, bingo. G. Bennet-Lurie will look into the various options and their prices. Christmas meal was arranged for Sat 10th Dec at D.Di Rollo’s flat.

9) Memberising: The board discussed whether STaG should memberise people who attend workshops and groups such as improve teatime and the writing and reading group. Overall everyone agreed that people attending workshops such as Mark Westbrook’s workshop which STaG are subsidising should pay for STaG membership. However those attending groups should not have to pay membership. Reasons for this decision: The logistics of memberising those who join clubs is difficult as many people pop in and out and may not come regularly, also clubs do not cost STaG much to run, the atmosphere of clubs would be ruined if we tried to memberise people. C. Goldstone suggested that we should look upon clubs as a type of publicity for the society and that hopefully those who attend clubs will join in in other ways and thereby be memberised at a later date. C. Felstead will send E. Igelstrom Mark Westbrooks email address so that he can memberise those who attend the workshop.

10) Gavin’s Proposal: It was agreed that it is not feasible to have a found spaces slot this semester due to time constraints. Instead the board proposed suggesting Gavin propose for New Works Festival if he wishes or otherwise propose for next semester’s found spaces slot. The board set a date (2nd & 3rd Feb) for a found spaces slot for second semester and a deadline for proposals of Fri 2nd Dec. If was pointed out that if someone wanted to propose for found spaces and wanted their ‘space’ to be the STaG room this was allowed and would then be a STaG Studio slot. C.Felstead would email Gavin explaining and encouraging him to propose again (either for New Works or Found Spaces) next semester. C. Felstead will write a blurb about the Found Spaces deadline for the newsletter.

11) AOB:

Website: The new website is up and running!! ☺ To log in to email accounts and admin for website A.Rutherford has added buttons in the bottom lefthand corner of the website. The passwords and usernames were distributed to the new board reps. A. Rutherford suggested having an demonstration session on how to post and use the website. Everyone agreed this would be a good idea. A Rutherford will ask the library whether we can book the computer group meeting rooms for Wed 2nd Nov for this session.

Facebook wall posts: T.Pennock brought up the issue of people deleting facebook wall posts. It was decided that board members were allowed to delete posts which are not theatre opportunities for our members. If a post is non-STaG related but is theatre related it should be allowed to be left on the wall.

Mainstage deadline: It was decided that a mainstage should be selected before we break up for the Christmas holiday. A deadline for proposals was set for Fri 9th Dec. Proposals will be discussed and a meeting with the directors will happen at the meeting on Mon 12th Dec. C. Felstead will write a blurb about this for the newsletter.

Minutes 17th October 2011

2011-10-18T03:53:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 17/10/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, H. Allan, I. McArthur, D. Keenan, Erik Igelstrom, L. Monkman

Apologies: L. Taylor

Also in attendance: 1st year board rep hopefuls, NTN directors, STaG Studio proposers

Agenda

1) 1st Year Reps
2) New Talent Nights post-mortem
3) Clean-up
4) Room key
5) STaG Studio
6) Much Ado
7) STaG Nights
8) Stroke Association
9) Social
10) Board Trip
11) AOB

1) 1st Year Reps
C. Felstead welcomed all those who attended and talked generally about the role they would be filling. The reps were invited one by one to talk to the board about why they felt they would be suitable for the positions. After a long debate where the pros and cons were weighed up, a vote was taken and the two reps chosen were Harriet and William. Congratulations!

2) New Talent Post-Mortem
Mabli and Charlie were welcomed to the meeting and C. Felstead reminded them and D. Di Rollo to clear out their props form the STaG room as soon as possible.
The audition process was felt to be good and the directors appreciated being able to sit in on them as it made casting easier. It was felt that having large rehearsal rooms booked for the weekend before the show would be helpful as it was difficult to rehearse in smaller spaces. The possibility of having to pay for the GU was discussed and other rooms should be thought of too.
The format was good and the directors enjoyed having two different scripts to work with. They felt the casts were encouraged to have a little friendly competition due to the parallel roles within the plays. The play choice was good and it seems to be a success if the play chosen is a well known story.
It would be nice to have more time to rehearse in the GU to make it easier on the actual night.
The assistant director roles was good but perhaps if there are two directors an AD should be optional as Mabli and Charlie found their AD became more like a stage manager. The crew’s roles should be more clearly defined to the directors and the casts as people were often unsure about who should be doing what. This is especially relevant when considering the AD roles which need to be more collaborative with the directors. The ASM roles were not really fulfilled as the SMs often didn’t really use them to their full advantage.
In the feedback it was suggested that some trust exercises and speech/stretching warm-ups would be useful. The social events were well received and people enjoyed meeting the other casts.
It would be good to warn people if rehearsals are due to overrun and also to emphasise to the casts that people turning up late will mean the rehearsals will run late.
Next year it would be better to advertise the auditions as running from one time to another rather than saying come at a set time as many people did not realise they did not have to turn up at 2pm on the dot.
The Monday night had 88 people attending and Tuesday had 191. An expected profit for the two nights is £452.

3) Clean-up
C. Felstead expressed her disappointment at the low numbers of people that attended and advised that more people come next time.

4) Room Key
The key I. McArthur was given by the porter’s box did not work. S. Gregson has emailed the MSA asking why the new key isn’t at the box and is hoping to get another key from the Cecilian society. We need 3 keys overall for easy access to the STaG room.

5) STaG Studio
The board met with the two people who had proposed – James and Heidi – and talked to them about their proposals and their ideas for putting the show on. Both proposals wanted co-directors and the board discussed the need to have somebody who has experience so that as much help as possible can be given.
After a discussion of both proposals the board voted and the majority decision was that James’s play ‘Closer’ would be chosen. A co-director should be found by Thursday, this will be advertised in the newsletter. Auditions will be held this weekend.
C. Felstead will provide feedback for both James and Heidi.
Heidi – we will recommend New Works as her play sounds as though it will be suitable for it, especially if extended as she has said it will be. We also recommend she goes to writing group as it may benefit her. The board really enjoyed her proposal and many people were interested in auditioning for it. The main issue was the length of the piece and the board was unsure if a longer piece could be ready in time.
James – The board recommends shortening the piece to about an hour as the time constraints are quite strict. It will be stressed that a dedicated team is essential for the smooth running of the show. Tech and set needs sorted as soon as possible. The board will also reiterate open auditions as it seemed as though James already had his cast in mind.
D. Keenan will be board rep.

6) Much Ado
Weekly crew meetings and whole cast rehearsals are going to be held. Communication between everyone seems to have improved. The photoshoot took place at the weekend however Josh does not have enough time to do the poster design so I. McArthur has contacted people to see who can design it. Tech meetings seem to be taking place without A. Rutherford however he is trying to get more involved and is unhappy at the lack of communication between the team and himself. L. Taylor will be asked about the box office. E. Igelstrom will memberise the cast at one of the group rehearsals. The board is a little concerned that Josh’s idea of having music on the night that he controls as the play goes on may not work particularly well but this is being tested at rehearsals.

7) STaG Nights
Poster is finished and will be printed as soon as possible after it has been emailed to I. McArthur. The STaG room has been booked for the cheese and wine social and the launch night will be held on the 5th November where there will be a band and two DJs. Auditions are being held this week.

8) Stroke Association
Some people are involved so a meeting will be held to organise what will happen on the night.

9) Social
The room has been booked and a projector is being loked for. A film has not yet been chosen.
10) Board Trip
G. Bennett-Lurie will send out a doodle to check availability for a day-trip this semester. The trip will be held next semester instead.

11) AOB
The website will be ready soon – hopefully by the end of the week.
Another trip to see a play is being discussed.

Minutes 12th October 2011

2011-10-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 12/10/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, H. Allan, I. McArthur, D. Keenan, Erik Igelstrom, L. Taylor

Apologies: L. Monkman

Agenda

1) New Talent
2) Much Ado
3) STaG Nights
4) Stroke Association
5) STaG Studio
6) Website
7) Other Universities Poster Design
8) SRC/Bus
9) Festivals
10) October Social
11) 1st Year Reps
12) AOB

C. Felstead pointed out that S. Gregson needs to print out more booking sheets. She also requested that the board memberised yet do so as soon as possible.

1) New Talent
Congratulations to all involved – it was a success and lots of people came to see the shows as well as to the after-party. The post-mortem will be held next week and the directors will be invited by C. Felstead to attend. The clean up needs to be done as soon as possible and the stage managers will be contacted regarding what belongs to who. People have a week to collect their things and a general clean up will be held on Sunday at 12pm. Approximately 90 people came to see the show on Monday with probably more on Tuesday. There will be a review of it in the GUUi magazine which I. McArthur will write.

2) Much Ado
Rehearsals are being organised. An apology for the late/absent replies to auditionees will go in the newsletter and people will be asked to email Josh if they have further questions. There will be a publicity photoshoot at 5pm on Sunday. A contract with the venue will be drawn up. The board is concerned about the lack of communication between Josh and his team – G. Bennett-Lurie felt there needed to be more communication between the team. She will draft an email that suggests this to Josh.

3) STaG Nights
The cheese and wine night will take place on the 21st October – the bar needs stocked for this as L. Monkman wants to sell wine by the glass. There will be an entry fee which covers all you can eat of cheese etc. Lots of auditions are coming up which will be advertised in the newsletter. Lots of first years are involved which is very good and the STaG Nights team are excited. The venue is able to be used as a rehearsal space during the day. Unfortunately we are unable to have the venue on the 13th as previously thought due to it being double booked. An art and design meeting is being held on Thursday. A fundraiser at The Old Hairdressers will be held on the 4th November and a DJ needs to be found for this – does anybody know someone who would be interested? Directors must be made aware that if they spend over their £20 budget STaG will not be able to reimburse them for this.

4) Stroke Association
S. Gregson and D. Di Rollo will be contacted by the association in order to be given more information about the event. People need to be recruited to help with costume and also to be the stewards. It will go in the newsletter again as a final final chance to be involved!

5) STaG Studio
There has been one proposal so far and the deadline is on Friday. L. Taylor will ask the person who proposed if they would be able to make the piece a bit longer.

6) Website
Should be finished soon, A.Rutherford will review everything and email a list of the things that need to be done to the website committee.

7) Other Universities Poster Design
Poster is finished and will be printed as soon as possible on A3 orange paper.

8) SRC/Bus
The affiliation has been done and the board must attend an induction on the 7th November before rooms/minibus can be hired. L. Taylor and E. Igelstrom will book their tests as soon as they can.

9) Festivals
We have been invited to the NSDF in Scarborough which runs from the 22nd-30th June. It costs £98 to apply for a judge to come and see the work before it is chosen. A big debate followed regarding what the best way to do this would be and the board decided that all the plays performed before the deadline (8th March) would be able to apply to be in this festival and the board will choose the show they felt was the best. Some board members were concerned that this may mean the New Works winner may end up at this and the fringe which may be a bit much for the cast and crew.
Another festival we have the opportunity to go to is in Durham, this costs £20 to apply for and it is picked based on the script submitted. There were concerns raised about the timing of this festival as it is in term time 22nd-25th Feb. C. Felstead will email for some more information and we will discuss it again next week.
NSDF is also looking for front of house staff which will be advertised in the newsletter.

10) Social
The social will be Halloween themed – it will be a film night on Tuesday 25th October.

11) 1st Year Reps
Lots of applications so the board decided to meet them next week. C. Felstead will invite them and compile a document of all applications for the board to read through.

12) AOB
L. Taylor is applying for funding for New Works from Creative Scotland. She is also looking for judges and welcomes any suggestions the board may have.
S. Gregson researched FOI requests and found out all we need to do is email and ask for documents/information we may want.

Minutes 3rd October 2011

2011-10-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 03/10/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, L. Monkman, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, H. Allan, I. McArthur,

Apologies: D. Keenan, Erik Igelstrom, L. Taylor

Agenda

1) New Talent
2) Much Ado
3) STaG Nights
4) Anselm Meeting
5) Stroke Association
6) Other Universities Poster Design
7) Website
8) SRC bus/ Board Trip
9) October Social
10) 1st Year Reps
11) AOB

1) New Talent
D.Di Rollo said so far it is going ok however because people are not turning up to rehearsals it is slowing the process down however cast and crew are still working hard. C. Felstead will try to go to a rehearsal this week to see how things are progressing. All the tech equipment has been ordered from the GU and C. Felstead should receive a confirmation email soon. I. McArthur will send a picture of the poster to E. Igelstrom to put in the newsletter to advertise it. The casts will also be memberised soon. Halls are being postered this week and so is the library. The rota for those helping on the door was made and it was decided that L. Monkman and I. McArthur would do Monday night and C. Felstead and S. Gregson will do Tuesday. They will be there from 7pm as will T. Pennock with the money box. The board discussed putting people in the balcony area if the downstairs seating area becomes full.

2) Much Ado
3 meetings with the cast will be arranged before rehearsals start and a doodle is being made to determine when they should be. Josh is meeting I. McArthur to discuss the poster design tonight. The team hope to have the rehearsal schedule done by this weekend and a creative team assembled by next week. No cast list has been emailed yet and G. Bennett-Lurie will chase this up again. C. Felseatd felt strongly that the board should decide where the play should be performed as Josh was being quite vague about his ideas. The board decided upon the studio space rather than the cabaret space due to better tech capabilities.

3) STaG Nights
So far 5/6 proposals have been received. There was a visit to the space last week and L. Monkman is hoping to use the male toilets as one area to perform as it is “very exciting”. A meeting will take place on Wednesday to discuss the poster design. L. Monkman is also meeting GUAVA to see if they would like to be involved. There will be a fundraiser at The Old Hairdressers with a DJ on the 3rd November (rather than the 29th October as previously suggested). Fundraising ideas so far are having a cheese and wine night in the STaG room and basing the social around a French theme. The committee to pick the plays has a few people interested.

4) Anselm Meeting
The meeting brought up a few issues with using the theatre space again in the G12. There is no license for public theatre anymore so if STaG were to use it then there would be no way we would allowed to advertise or sell tickets. The board felt the theatre space is worth fighting for and so S. Gregson will look into FOI acts to see how possible it would be to use the space again and what happened with the lottery funding. Anselm advised we look into getting some form of production fund back from the university again.

5) Stroke Association
3 responses so far – 2 actors, 1 designer. D. Di Rollo and S. Gregson will organise it and target specific people to get involved.

6) Other Universities Poster Design
I. McArthur designed 3 different posters and showed the board. The board chose one which will have a few adjustments made before the final say is given.

7) Website
It is pretty much finished there are just a few minor adjustments needed. A long conversation followed about various technological hitches that most of the board lost interest in or did not understand.

8) SRC bus/ Board Trip
Other methods of transport will be investigated, for example renting a car or two. The possibility of a board day trip to M+Ds was discussed. G. Bennett-Lurie will investigate.

9) October Social
D. Keenan had a few ideas – Halloween film night, fancy dress party, subcrawl. Last week’s social went well and the bar needs restocked again (especially with pear cider).

10) 1st Year Reps
6 applications so far, C. Felstead expressed the need to meet the people if we get many more.

11) AOB
Glasgow Academy will contact D. Di Rollo to discuss doing workshops with us.
Next week’s board meeting will be on Wednesday 12th at 5pm.

Minutes 26th September 2011

2011-10-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

Minutes 26th September 2011
In Attendance: Aidan Rutherford, Catherine Goldstone, Cerne Felstead, Dominic Di Rollo, Harriet Allan, Isobel, Sam Gregson, Tom Pennock, Donal Keenan, Gillian Bennett-Lurie, Lisa Taylor

Apologies: Erik Igelström

Agenda
1) Much Ado About Nothing
2) Mark Westbrook workshop
3) Freshers Week Post-Mortem
4) New Talent Nights
5) STaG Nights
6) STaG Studio
7) 1st Year Reps
8) Stroke Association
9) Social
10) Theatre trip
11) Board Trip
12) Anselm/G12 Meeting

1) Much Ado About Nothing
Josh was excited about the number of people that came to audition. The casting will be donetonight and people will be alerted as to their success tomorrow. L. taylor has asked questions about the space and has been told front of house and bar staff will be provided and we are able to do our own box office as well as set our own ticket prices. The board decided the tickets will be £8(£6) and for school groups a special offer of paying £50 for groups of 10 will also be advertised. There is a 50 seat capacity and free press tickets will be given away.

2) Mark Westbrook
A free workshop has been offered to STaG and can be done on anything we choose. The board discussed having it related to Shakespeare as it seems to fit the theme of this semester or possibly to do with play writing. This will be opened up to the whole membership. C. Felstead will ask for opinions of the workshop and we will review it next week.

3) Freshers Week PM
D. Keenan felt it went well but that the freshers helpers were involved too early in the process and this meant that plans were confused and hectic. The board discussed having the option for helpers to be on the stall with a board member too as flyering in the rain is a bit depressing. The BBQ was a success but STaG ball was not – this will be saved for the elections in the summer. The flyers were well received even though they cost 4x more than usual – this was felt to be worth it. C. Felstead feels we shouldn’t try to skimp on money over freshers week as it is the most exciting time for students and we need to be attractive to them. The idea of having different flyers for the stall and the street was discussed.
The idea of setting a guideline for when board members should aim to be back in Glasgow to help with freshers preparations was discussed. Unfortunately other universities were not targeted but this can continue throughout the year instead. I. McAthur will design a new poster for other universities and show it to the board next week. Scratch night was a success and more night-time social events should occur. STaG bear should have antlers was the general consensus.

4) New Talent Nights
Splitting auditionees according to talent and STaG age was difficult and perhaps a new system needs to be developed. There is a social on the 3rd October at 7:30pm in Coopers and the board should attend if possible! C. Felstead volunteered to be the board rep and everyone agreed this was a good idea. The aftershow party will be at A. Rutherford’s flat but people will meet in the beer bar prior to going. A facebook event will be made.
D. Di Rollo has had cast dropouts already and asked the board’s opinion on drafting in other people instead – this was felt to be fine as long as the parts they were given were smaller ones.

5) STaG Nights
The film showing didn’t attract that many people however L. Monkman is sending it to those who did not make it. There is a visit to the venue on the 28th between 5 and 7pm. So far there has only been one proposal but more are expected. The committee has been formed. The launch night is going to be the 28th October. A poster is being designed after discussion tonight.

6) STaG Studio
No proposals so far

7) 1st Year Reps
3 interested so far. The deadline for applications is October 14th. The positions will be decided upon by reading the blurbs sent in.

8) Stroke Association
No interest so far, it will go in the newsletter again this week.

9) Social
Disaster – it hasn’t been in the newsletter yet. A FB event will be made tonight and the board should all attend. The bar will be stocked by C. Felstead and G. Bennett-Lurie tomorrow.

10) Theatre Trip
Please book tickets!

11) Board Trip
I. McArthur is investigating the cottage further. Board members are reminded to fill in the doodle.

12) Anselm meeting/G12
There will be an emphasis on collaboration between STaG and the theatre department, could mention the writers group and ask if anyone in the dept would be interested in helping/running a session. The relationship needs to be maintained for the future.

Minutes 19th September 2011

2011-09-24T07:49:00.001-07:00

Minutes: Monday 19th September 2011
In Attendance: C. Felstead, S. Gregson, L. Monkman, T. Pennock, E. Igelström, I. McArthur, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, D. Di Rollo, H. Allan, D. Keenan, L. Taylor, G. Bennett-Lurie

Agenda
1) New Talent
2) Much Ado
3) STaG Nights
4) Studio Slots
5) New Works
6) Stroke Association/ Arriva
7) Website
8) Theatre Trip Socials
9) Board Trip
10) AOB

1) New Talent
Auditions went well and lots of people turned up. They seemed happy with having a panel of 5 people to audition to. Casts have been emailed to directors and workshops will be held to determine parts. There will be a budget meeting at 2pm on Tuesday in the STaG room. A. Rutherford is thinking about tech possibilities and L. Taylor will get the dimmer rack by the 1st October. C. Felstead suggested another social for the casts which will be held on either the 30th September or the 2nd October in Coopers from 7.30pm. An after show party could be held at A. Rutherford’s flat but this is to be confirmed. E. Igelström will start memberising the casts as soon as possible. Publicity plans are mainly to poster unions and halls however the possibility of a mention on a radio show was also discussed. A Facebook event will be made closer to the time.

2) Much Ado
The venue has been booked from the 28th November – 3rd December and the shows will be on from Wednesday to Saturday. There are approximately 50 seats but this could be increased. L. Taylor will find out all the information about the box office and the advertising of the show on the space’s website. The total cost will be about £900. We are able to determine our own ticket prices for the show. We will try to get as much publicity and reviews as possible before the show starts. I. McArthur is writing a press release and a photoshoot will be held as soon as possible after casting for publicity photos. A budget meeting is being planned.

3) STaG Nights
L. Monkman has had a few responses so far regarding joining the committee. She is going to show the film Belleville Rendez-Vous on Thursday in the STaG room and then base discussion for the festival around it. There is a visit to the Flying Duck on the 28th September between 5pm and 7pm. L. Monkman is also applying for grants/funding for the shows.

4) Studio Slots
The STaG room as a theatre space was discussed and it was suggested a proposal deadline should be set for people to perform something. It will be like a full studio slot and will be a relatively small scale production due to the size of the STaG room. A vote was taken and the majority voted in favour of this. The deadline has been set at 14th October and the performance dates will be the 9th and 10th November. L. Taylor is writing the blurb for the newsletter.

5) New Works
L. Taylor will book The Space as the venue and provisional dates were set. The proposal deadline was suggested as being the 6th January and people will be informed by the 11th/12th January as to their success. The show week will be the 15th-18th February.

6) Stroke Association/ Arriva
The board is in favour of doing the Spooky stewarding. It will be advertised in the newsletter to gauge interest and after this H. Allan will organise meetings etc.
Arriva now want us to perform a small scale panto on a bus. The board wasn’t in favour of this as it is extremely different to the original idea that was suggested to us.

7) Website
Deadline for finished site is the 3rd October.

8) Theatre Trip Socials
C. Felstead will suggest a trip to see Kes to D. Keenan

9) Board Trip
Prices are expensive for anywhere more interesting than Stirling. C. Felstead will investigate the rules for the SRC bus test. A date change to the 4th November was suggested.

10) AOB
O’Couture has been suggested as a possible space. S. Gregson will go and look at it.
Freshers p/m will be next week.
QMU/SRC affiliation is being completed this week.
Mark Westbrook offered a free ‘masterclass’ to STaG which we may look into.

Minutes Monday 12th September 2011

2011-09-14T04:03:00.001-07:00

Minutes: Monday 12th September 2011
In Attendance: C. Felstead, S. Gregson, L. Monkman, T. Pennock, E. Igelström, I. McArthur, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, D. Di Rollo, H. Allan, D. Keenan,
Apologies: L. Taylor, G. Bennett-Lurie

Agenda
1) Freshers’ Week
2) Much Ado
3) Website
4) Play Reading/Writing Group
5) New Talent Nights
6) Snack Rota
7) STaG Nights
8) Newsletter
9) Board Trip
10) AOB

1) Freshers’ Week
The stall (number 67 in Bute Hall) will be decorated at 9am by C. Felstead and D. Keenan, T. Pennock will bring the money box at 9.30am. It will be a very orange stall with bunting, posters, reviews and a banner. D. Keenan has made a rota for the board to be on the stall which he read out to the board. The process for memberising was discussed and the board decided to have people fill out their name, matric number and email address on a sheet of paper and the stall helpers will make the cards up for them. A separate sheet for the mailing list will also be available. C. Felstead stressed the importance of being happy and helpful for the freshers.
I. McArthur will email Simon Murray about speaking to freshers after their introductory lecture.

2) Much Ado
So far the board feels they may use the studio L. Taylor works at for the venue – it has a capacity of 50 people so the show will run over 4 nights as it is Shakespeare and so likely to be popular. It will cost approximately £150 per night including the get in days. Publicity plans have started and a designer for the poster will be advertised for in the newsletter. The auditions will be on the 25th and 26th September in the GU.

3) Website
Put on hold for freshers, work will continue afterwards.

4) Play reading/writing Group
Good response so far. It will be advertised in the newsletter. It will probably be on a Tuesday. C. Felstead will keep in touch with the organizers to check progress.

5) NTN
Blurb in newsletter about having old STaG members in the shows too however the importance of new members getting larger roles will also be emphasised.

6) Snack Rota
H. Allan will make and email out a rota for semester 1 as soon as possible.

7) STaG Nights
C. Felstead expressed her shock at how close it was. The proposal deadline is the 5th October and the first proposal has been received already. L. Monkman will set a date for writers and tech to visit the Flying Duck. The budget meeting will be held on the 13th at 5pm in the STaG room.

8) Newsletter
1st year board reps will be advertised for however they will not be picked until after NTN. The deadline to apply is the 15th October. Aidan will write the advert.

9) Board Trip
Perhaps the weekend of the 28th October? G. Bennet-Lurie was chosen to look into it (because she wasn’t there to object).

10) AOB
I. McArthur has looked into various grants to assist in turning the STaG room into a studio space. She is still doing this as the Creative Scotland grant system is quite complex.
D. Di Rollo is looking for contacts within high schools to put on workshops as part of community theatre projects.

Minutes 29th August 2011

2011-09-06T05:35:00.001-07:00

Minutes: Monday 29th August 2011
In Attendance: C. Felstead, S. Gregson, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, T. Pennock, E. Igelström, I. McArthur
Apologies: Aidan Rutherford, Catherine Goldstone, Dominic Di Rollo, Harriet Allan, Donal Keenan, Gillian Bennett-Lurie
Agenda
1) A Stone’s Throw Budget
2) Freshers’ Week
3) New Talent Nights
4) Mark Wstbrook Workshops
5) STaG Room clear-up
6) Website
7) G12 and Venues
8) AOB
1) A Stone’s Throw Budget
The Fringe show ‘A Stone’s Throw’, the post mortem of which will be held next week (5th September 2011), overall was a successful production. However overspending was deemed to be a failure of the show which needs to be addressed in order to make sure that future productions do not repeat this issue.
Overspending on production was due to a lack of overseeing of cash flow. A budget of £150 for set, props and costumes was decided on and agreed by directors, financial secretary and production managers at the production’s financial meeting. By the end of the production £480 had been spent on set, props and costumes. This overspending was unintentional however still a significant amount over the original allocated for the production.
Firstly, discussion on how and whether to recover costs was discussed. One solution that was considered was that those involved in the production should recover at least some of the costs. However after some discussion it was decided that STaG would take the hit as the board unanimously felt that passing on these costs would be too harsh especially considering the fact that it would be students and recent graduates who would have to pay as well as those who were oblivious to the original budget.
Next, the board discussed how to reduce the chances of this incident happening in the future. The following ideas were suggested: Emphasis from the financial secretary on the consequences of overspending and on fundraising money; treating old members of STaG as new members to ensure no assumptions on their knowledge of STaG specific budgeting are made; making sure that everyone involved in the production is aware of the budget allocated to the show.
It was decided that T. Pennock would send an email to the directors letting them know: of the decision on STaG recovering costs; to make them aware of the regret of the board that this overspending had happened; and to clarify the financial decisions and cash
flow throughout the production to prepare for discussions at the post mortem where finance is almost inevitably going to come up.
2) Freshers’ Week
Events and scheduling for the coming freshers’ week were discussed.
It was decided that no events for freshers should be held on the Monday of freshers’ week as not enough notice and advertising would be possible to make numbers large enough.
Two workshops will take place; one in the QMU run by S. Gregson and I. McArthur introducing freshers to the society with games, warm-ups and script readings and one in the GUU run by T. Pennock and E. Igelstrom on improv. Times and dates for both venues would need to be confirmed.
During the week a BBQ will take place outside the STaG room where food will be free and drinks will be sold in the STaG room. The BBQ should be at a suitable time to allow a natural flow into the night.
A scratch night will be held in the STaG room with L. Taylor to seek people for the line-up. S. Gregson suggested that the line-up be light hearted and fun.
STaG will have a stall at the freshers fair on Tuesday and Wednesday with a rota yet to be set for board members to man/woman the stall. Board members were chosen as they would more likely be in a better position to explain the ins and outs of STaG.
It was decided that the board would also best be suited to set the agenda/ events for freshers’ week with freshers’ helpers providing help to STaG and freshers and acting as friendly faces around campus.
A social for freshers’ helpers on Sunday 11th September was decided on to let people mingle before embarking on the mental week ahead. A short chat about the week and what to do would also be provided along with a written blurb on the society so that all helpers can be fully informed. This blurb could be written by D. Keenan.
Flyers are still needed for freshers’ week the design was discussed with L. Monkman coming up with the origami format and I. McArthur writing the flyer.
Membership cards are to be brought back and handed out on signing up along with a STaG badge as ordered by C. Felstead. The membership cards should include an expiry date, name and member no.
Shifty bear is to make an appearance with potentially a hunter tracking him down throughout the day, a wanted sign would mention no rewards but a small reward for taking a snap shot of the bear would be given.
Auditions for New Talent Nights will be held on either Saturday 17th or Sunday 18th September in the STaG room with C. Felstead to check suitability of directors.
Things still to be done include: Stocking the bar and T-Shirt printing. Friday 1pm in the STaG room was allocated for T-Shirt printing. No names for the T-shirts was decided upon as this may come across as cliquey and a lot more effort would be required.
To keep freshers interested and around it weas decided that the week following freshers’ week should include a freshers social.
A budget of £150 will be allocated for freshers’ week.
A note to the mature students should be written by C. Felstead explaining the timetable for upcoming events to give them some notice of potential disruption.
3) New Talent Nights
C. Felstead has emailed information to all the directors of NTNs which will be held on Monday 11th and Tuesday 12th September in the GUU debates chamber. Auditions will be held on either Saturday 17th or Sunday 18th September in the STaG room with C. Felstead to check suitability of directors. It is important that STaG board members are present to hang about and make sure that everyone is comfortable at the auditions. L. Monkman and I McArthur are to be the two board members to audition freshers.
I. McArthur informed the board that she was struggling to find designers for the NTN poster.
4) Mark Wstbrook Workshops
Mark Westbrook has approached STaG with interest to provide his workshops to STaG members at a reduced price from£125 to £85. The Board have asked Mark Westbrook to reduce his offer of £85 for 8 sessions to £75 with the idea of STaG reducing it further to £55 by subsidising the workshops.
The board voted in favour of the workshops.
5) STaG Room clear-up
All belongings have been asked to be picked up by Wednesday 31st August to allow for a clear-up on Wednesday 7th September. Everyone is encouraged to bring nibbles, smiles and black bin bags. L. Taylor will bring her car to allow items to be taken to the tip. An IKEA trip was arranged for Tuesday 5th September.
6) Website
A quick update on the website was requested. The website is progressing smoothly and is due to be completed before freshers week begins.
7) G12 and Venues
S. Gregson has contacted the theatre department with regards to the James Arnott Theatre. The department are reluctant to allow STaG any use of the theatre in the first semester and very little in the second. A few emails have been sent to Anselm the head of department and the board are awaiting a reply. Some time will be given to allow a reply. Further discussion on ideas for how to take the matter of the theatre further if no progress is made with the theatre department, these include: asking for support from the SRC; getting the various student media groups involved; asking for advice from Charles Kennedy with regards to taking the issue up with the university; starting a petition and campaign.
A visit to the Argyle studio was arranged. The Argyle theatre is a possible venue for STaG’s first mainstage with an estimated capacity of 60-70 and banked seating.
8) AOB None.

Minutes 6th June 2011

2011-06-08T06:57:00.001-07:00

Minutes 6th June 2011
Viturally In Attendance: Aidan Rutherford added Catherine Goldstone, Cerne Felstead, Dominic Di Rollo, Erik Igelström, Harriet Allan, Isobel, Sam Gregson, Tom Pennock, Donal Keenan, Gillian Bennett-Lurie

Virtual Apologies: Lisa Taylor

Agenda
1) Much Ado About Nothing
2) Which Shoes
3) A Stone’s Throw
4) New Talent Nights
5) AOB

Donal Keenan “I brought snacks for myself”
Erik Igelström “welcome to the board meeting OF THE FUTURE”

1) Much Ado About Nothing
[5:40:41 PM] Cerne Felstead: Erik do we have the blurb thing sorted?
[5:40:45 PM] Erik Igelström: yes, Josh sent me one today
[5:43:26 PM] Cerne Felstead: right... auditions... Josh suggested sat 24th 12-2pm, sat 24th 6-8pm and sun 25th 1-3pm (Sept that is) The board all agrees they are fine, now we just need to book. We want two rooms for each one in the GUU
[5:45:54 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: yeah, we were thinking the big one that was used for the bar at the ball and the one used for auditioning in one flew
[5:45:59 PM] Cerne Felstead: the reading room and the library? in guu
[5:46:36 PM] Sam Gregson: ok
[5:47:51 PM] Cerne Felstead: Sam book?
[5:47:58 PM] Sam Gregson: yeah I’ll do it, is it open atm?
[5:48:08 PM] Cerne Felstead: not today… but tomorrow I think yes. As for the venue for much ado… Sam has emailed g12 but they haven’t got back yet
[5:48:50 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: and if we don't get that?
[5:48:53 PM] Cerne Felstead: we can leave it a few more days then seeing as it was the weekend
[5:49:12 PM] Sam Gregson: Last time I emailed they said they would have everything sorted mid May
[5:49:29 PM] Cerne Felstead: which is good news for us, they should be able to take a booking from us pretty soon, we'll just have to keep bugging them.. because I think there are few other options Gillian :S
[5:50:10 PM] Sam Gregson: Should I reply to Cottiers and say it’s too expensive?
[5:50:33 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: that govan one sounded like a nicely priced alternative, though I know not everyone is happy about the location...
[5:50:44 PM] Cerne Felstead: yeah I think you should Sam.. maybe he will make it cheaper ... go for the whole " we student" thing
[5:50:51 PM] Sam Gregson: what’s the govan one called?
[5:51:06 PM] Cerne Felstead: yeah I am also not sure it has any tech in the govan one
[5:51:13 PM] Harriet Allan: and it rules out Sunday performances cos of the subway
[5:51:14 PM] Cerne Felstead: Pearce institute Sam, linlithgow theatre. I think its defo worth a phone up and asking about their tech capacities. it is VERY cheap
[5:52:23 PM] Sam Gregson: the Pearce is not really a proper working theatre by the looks of it
[5:52:24 PM] Tom Pennock: what's the capacity of the govan place?
[5:52:34 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: about 100 I think?
[5:52:36 PM] Sam Gregson: Not sure they have a box office etc.
[5:53:08 PM] Tom Pennock: sounds ok for capacity then, that's about what the ramshorn has isn't it
[5:53:12 PM] Cerne Felstead: Yeah. I think if Sam rings them and finds out more while we await g12 reply that would be best for now
[5:54:02 PM] Sam Gregson: when I went to the Pearce about a year ago they were throwing out their seating bank, what have they got now?
[5:54:09 PM] Cerne Felstead: I don’t know... the photo on their website shows a seating bank still
[5:54:31 PM] Sam Gregson: It seems pretty rubbish
[5:56:39 PM] Cerne Felstead: We will await the G12 reply and Sam will ring. Also I round a nice place in RSAMD but I was thinking it might be a bit shit for josh to just put on a play in his own school
[5:58:08 PM] Sam Gregson: Also we've considered the RSAMD before and mostly found that they don't like letting ppl use it in term time but I shall email

2) Which Shoes
[5:59:22 PM] Cerne Felstead: just wanted to let everyone know that we/Catherine got the video in fine. Can we advertise in the newsletter how people can watch it Erik?
[5:59:46 PM] Erik Igelström: yes
[5:59:47 PM] Tom Pennock: there's a video of it on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uN_DrjeKKcc it's just one of the cast members brought a camera with him and turned it on in the corner I think
[6:01:06 PM] Catherine Goldstone: I have the official footage saved on my computer, would you like me to send it anywhere else? it's quite large
[6:01:17 PM] Cerne Felstead: if you can send it? but i'm not sure how
[6:02:43 PM] Erik Igelström: surely we'd want to put up the proper one then
[6:02:49 PM] Catherine Goldstone: onto YouTube?
[6:03:09 PM] Cerne Felstead: I think we should wait until all the nts stuff is over with otherwise they might get annoyed
[6:03:19 PM] Catherine Goldstone: would you like me to try and upload it after it's been broadcast?
[6:03:33 PM] Cerne Felstead: yeah if you can... but only afterwards. Cool so Issy is sending Erik thing for the blurb for actual showing by nts

3) A Stone’s Throw
[6:04:54 PM] Cerne Felstead: we made £230 fundraising at face painting yesterday! which is amazing :) The main problem with AST at the moment is finding a flat... I was wondering whether we could maybe put something in the newsletter... like do you or any of your friends have a flat we could rent during the fringe? We would obviously cover rent and pay extra to make it worth their while. The main problem is the flats advertised online are all really posh, luxury holiday flat types and really expensive.. whereas we want to target students away for the summer who we can give a bit of money to. so I thought newsletter might be a good idea. I’ll write up a blurb for you Erik!
[6:07:05 PM] Erik Igelström: newsletter is probably a good idea
[6:08:23 PM] Cerne Felstead: any suggestions peeps just email me!
[6:08:50 PM] Tom Pennock: is there any worth in my looking around newsagents and the like in Edinburgh for adverts?
[6:09:19 PM] Aidan Rutherford: I’ve been keeping an eye out but most seem really expensive
[6:10:30 PM] Cerne Felstead: well I’ll keep up the search… you too Tom and Aidan in edin thanks! I’ll write the blurb for the newsletter. I would also like to advertise the walk we are doing to Edinburgh in the newsletter as well
[6:13:27 PM] Erik Igelström: Loads of important stuff in this newsletter it seems...

4) New Talent Nights
[6:14:58 PM] Cerne Felstead: right did you all get the email about wind in the willows? I think (as you can tell by my email) that it would be great
[6:16:05 PM] Donal Keenan: well it pretty much ticks every box and we know the format works as best as poss. from last year (provided directors are good)
[6:16:39 PM] Cerne Felstead: right so would we all be ok with 2 nights of the same play?
[6:17:27 PM] Tom Pennock: will we make them both use the same script?
[6:17:45 PM] Cerne Felstead: no they can use whichever script they like.. like last year, they both used different ones
[6:17:50 PM] Sam Gregson: I propose we advertise as soon as FW starts which means that we'll need a poster made before then
[6:17:54 PM] Catherine Goldstone: is there another script available?
[6:18:13 PM] Tom Pennock: not that I’m aware of. Although I think Callum wrote his own script last year
[6:18:31 PM] Isobel: I'm on the poster, but I just need performance dates and venue confirmed.
[6:18:39 PM] Donal Keenan: Definitely advertise at start of FW, its good to be able to give freshers info when they ask you about society
[6:18:45 PM] Catherine Goldstone: we could give them the same script and say that they can edit or add to it as much as they want? (provided they don't take away or add to the time)
[6:19:09 PM] Cerne Felstead: yes Catherine that’s what we did last year and it worked well. We can also say on the poster that it is an AA Milne adaptation which sounds good .Who is in favour of 2 nights same play 2 directors 2 casts.. wind in willows?

*Everyone was in favour of 2 nights, same play, 2 directors, 2 casts*

[6:20:50 PM] Cerne Felstead: so now dates... I was thinking 10th and 11th October like last year because that is a Monday and Tuesday and the GUU debates chamber is free to hire on those days. We have to find out if it is available though.
[6:21:56 PM] Sam Gregson: I might as well have a look when I go down for the auditions
[6:22:18 PM] Isobel: This is a good idea also because, Freshers event audience wise, you're not competing with as many stupid drinking and doughnut eating competitions...
[6:22:54 PM] Cerne Felstead: also they need time to put it all together but not too long so it doesn’t clash with anything else
[6:23:16 PM] Cerne Felstead: yeah so Sam will book guu for this as well
[6:23:23 PM] Sam Gregson: What about auditions then? Sunday, STaG room?
[6:24:16 PM] Isobel: 80-odd folk to audition...
[6:24:26 PM] Cerne Felstead: I think it was done over one day as I did it and I don’t remember going twice it was a long day but id rather get it done over one day. I think we might get MORE people if we have it over two days… and we don’t really need/want more people
[6:25:40 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: but if there are other things of interest going on at that particular time? Are we not better off giving freshers more of a chance to get involved?
[6:25:49 PM] Sam Gregson: What about the process was that too daunting for newbies?
[6:26:11 PM] Cerne Felstead: I really think we don’t need more people. I don’t think we could handle it
[6:26:13 PM] Donal Keenan: It was pretty scary not gonna lie
[6:26:27 PM] Tom Pennock: the auditions last year were from 2-7pm
[6:26:44 PM] Cerne Felstead: can we sort out time and date before process. Shall we say Sunday 18th 1pm? I don’t think we should say when it is "until" as if you just write start time more people are likely to turn up at the beginning otherwise people turn up right at the end
[6:28:10 PM] Tom Pennock: maybe give an earlier until time? People might get the impression that if it starts at 1 and they can't make it at 1 then there's no point showing up
[6:28:36 PM] Erik Igelström: Donal, just a quick question, do you want to keep advertising for freshers helpers in the newsletter?
[6:28:38 PM] Cerne Felstead: ok what if we say 1pm-4pm but will actually go on longer (secretly)
[6:29:29 PM] Donal Keenan: Well last week got a few more people in. I think we've got a big enough number to do it now but more wouldn't hurt - what do you guys think?
[6:29:49 PM] Tom Pennock: I think we should only have an extra hour at the end
[6:30:07 PM] Cerne Felstead: right so NTS auditions to clarify will be Sunday 18th sep 1pm-4pm
[6:30:28 PM] Erik Igelström: these are the "official" dates presumably?
[6:30:39 PM] Tom Pennock: last year's was planned 2-7pm, I don't know how busy it was
[6:30:44 PM] Sam Gregson: then they will be annoyed if it overruns
[6:30:55 PM] Catherine Goldstone: well surely it'll only overrun if they turn up late
[6:30:55 PM] Cerne Felstead: we just had to stay until everyone was done
[6:30:56 PM] Erik Igelström: just make sure they tell us at the start, Sam?
[6:31:23 PM] Cerne Felstead: yeah we always say those who need to leave early can go first
[6:31:46 PM] Sam Gregson: people might just be annoyed in general if it "over runs"?
[6:31:48 PM] Tom Pennock: maybe we should give a time that we expect it'll take? if we can produce such a time i.e. "you'll be there half an hour" or something
[6:32:14 PM] Aidan Rutherford: might be a good idea just to put up posters which say it's likely to over run?
[6:32:15 PM] Cerne Felstead: hmm well tom it is so different for everyone, like for the first person and the last person there could be hours in between. I agree with Aidan
[6:32:45 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: well I was there for about an hour last time - practicing etc can take a while
[6:33:05 PM] Sam Gregson: ppl generally turn up at the beginning and leave when they’re done which could be 30 min later or 5 hrs later
[6:34:05 PM] Cerne Felstead: I think if people are willing to do it they will stay and they usually do
[6:34:21 PM] Tom Pennock: freshers will probably be less likely to complain and more likely to just not bother
[6:34:26 PM] Sam Gregson: no cos we didn't give a time, but people might be angry anyway
[6:34:27 PM] Catherine Goldstone: exactly. I think it could be ok as long as we don't make them stay ridiculous hours over the time we've advertised, they can't get too angry over half an hour or something, it's sort of expected that the process will be sporadic and take a long time
[6:35:18 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: I can't imagine them being angry if they are auditioning for a part and they see the decision of roles as in our hands
[6:36:20 PM] Cerne Felstead: auditions will be Sunday 18th sep 2pm-7pm
[6:36:24 PM] Erik Igelström: as long as lots of people don't come right before 7 and thus make overrunning even more likely
[6:36:42 PM] Sam Gregson: its not half an hour for audition though, it could be hours, it gets so busy
[6:37:00 PM] Cerne Felstead: yes Sam is right is could be hours... but people did it last year and I don’t see it as a problem
[6:37:21 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: also the waiting gives them time to get to know other auditionees
[6:37:39 PM] Cerne Felstead: ok next... the process of the auditions: Last year we had 3 board members do it but we were thinking it would be good to let the directors see the talent… they would not get a say in who gets who but just see them so they can remember when they are putting people into roles
[6:38:52 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: yeh I think it would be really good if the directors could see who they'd be working with
[6:39:20 PM] Cerne Felstead: so how I posit it would work... would be 2 board members rate the people good, ok, bad, and then they get equally split into two piles with equal talent and given to directors… directors then place their given actors into roles
[6:39:54 PM] Aidan Rutherford: but directors could also rate people but not split them up
[6:40:14 PM] Isobel: It's cruel but necessary...
[6:40:26 PM] Cerne Felstead: so maybe we could have just one board member and two directors
[6:41:14 PM] Gillian Bennett Lurie: I agree if it's a massive group of us its a bit much
[6:41:47 PM] Tom Pennock: what input do the directors have in splitting up the actors?
[6:41:53 PM] Aidan Rutherford: none
[6:41:56 PM] Isobel: I reckon you need one or two people working the waiting room areas, giving out the form for fillings in personal details, answering any questions, friendly face etc.
[6:42:10 PM] Sam Gregson: the directors have no input in the splitting
[6:42:12 PM] Erik Igelström: so in that case splitting is up to the one board member?
[6:42:17 PM] Catherine Goldstone: yeah a friendly face would help make it all less intimidating
[6:42:17 PM] Cerne Felstead: yes just one director per play watching
[6:42:49 PM] Cerne Felstead: I think board members can help organise people outside. Is everyone ok with that?

*Everyone agreed*

[6:44:02 PM] Cerne Felstead: we need to write a blurb for the newsletter to advertise for the directors, anyone up for the challenge? It has to sound fun and make clear that it is about FUN!!
[6:44:31 PM] Isobel: I'm happy to do it.
[6:44:39 PM] Cerne Felstead: great thanks Issy! So you'll send that to Erik. By the way everyone... there is a deadline of 4pm Tuesday to send anything to Erik for the newsletter just so you all know… So Issy will email Erik the blurb for newsletter and will pass it by me first.

5) AOB
[6:48:02 PM] Isobel: Sam - once you know you've got GU booked for WITW performance, can you email me and then I can bash oot this froggy poster?
[6:48:24 PM] Sam Gregson: yep sure :)
[6:48:25 PM] Cerne Felstead: don’t forget the toad in the hole issy

*People felt the skype meeting went well despite being a little surreal.*

[6:51:23 PM] Cerne Felstead: yes website meeting 10th at 4pm
[6:51:29 PM] Cerne Felstead: BOARD MEETING 13TH 5:30PM
[6:51:46 PM] Cerne Felstead: meeting adjourned

*We need to change the names of who can book at the QMU*

Minutes 1st June 2011

2011-06-02T03:57:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 5:30pm 01/06/11
In attendance: C. Felstead, C. Goldstone, S. Gregson, E. Igelström, I. McArthur, T. Pennock, A. Rutherford
Apologies: H. Allan, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, D. Keenan, L. Monkman, L. Taylor
Agenda
• Much Ado About Nothing Mainstage
• ‘Which Shoes do you Choose?’
• A Stone’s Throw
• The STaG Ball
• Archives
• Freshers’ Week
• New Talent Nights
• Facebook-gate
• Our Next Meeting
• A.O.B
C. Felstead raised the concern that in view of the percentage of board members in attendance, holding a meeting may be unconstitutional. T. Pennock took out his calculator and in fact, the numbers were sufficient to go ahead.
Much Ado About Nothing Mainstage
C. Felstead requested that J. Payne (director of Much Ado)’s request for some extra help in the form of crew/asst. Direc. be advertised in the newsletter. E. Igelström will do this. It was suggested that some basic questions about why applicants were interested in the role be included to make the process more selective, with a deadline for application.
The board agreed that they all enjoy reading E. Igelström’s newsletters.
In terms of finding a mainstage venue, S. Gregson explained having investigated using the James Arnott Theatre, The Ramshorn and Cottiers, the final of which he had recently visited. P. Sneddon, manager of Cottiers, quoted S. Gregson £1,800 for a week’s use of the space, not including staff costs, of which there would unavoidably be some. S. Gregson also explained that the theatre does not have its own box office, meaning ticket sales would be entirely the responsibility of STaG. C. Felstead pointed out that this was very expensive compared to other venues rented in the past.
With regards to use of the Ramshorn theatre, S. Gregson has been given the date of July 31st for its proposed closure, making it an especially unlikely option. A. Rutherford pointed out that the theatre may be looking to sell some of its equipment, and that STaG may want to investigate this later in the year.
Staff at the James Arnott informed S. Gregson that the entire year’s schedule must be worked out before it can be made available to outside parties such as STaG. This, they pointed out, may take some time. S. Gregson will pursue this further. An additional concern raised was that rehearsal time in the James Arnott may be ‘bitty’, with very few larger slots of several consecutive hours available.
A.Rutherford and I. McArthur expressed an interest in finding a smaller venue, in which shows could run for slightly longer. S. Gregson pointed out the importance of using a larger, official theatre space for STaG’s mainstage for benefit of show, spectator, performer and STaG’s reputation. C. Felstead pointed out that adequate stage size was also important for a mainstage production.
A. Rutherford suggested looking into using Athenium on Buchanan st, an older theatre which, he explained, may or may not still be in use. S. Gregson said he would look into this.
C. Felstead passed on J. Payne’s suggested dates for Much Ado About Nothing auditions. The board agreed, with these being at the very beginning of the year, immediately after Freshers’ Week, that to make them a week later would be beneficial. This will be posed to J. Payne as an alternative.
Production week dates were discussed, with Mon 21st-Sat 26th November preferable. It was pointed out that previous mainstage audiences may have suffered because of early December production weeks, causing exam clashes.
‘Which Shoes do you Choose?’
A.Cordier and cast were congratulated on a successful performance. There were some concerns expressed that the video footage may not be ready in time for submittal to NTS. A. Cordier was contacted about this, and it is the responsibility of C. Goldstone to see it is sent as quickly as possible.
A Stone’s Throw
C. Felstead explained that a flat is still being looked for in Edinburgh, although there is currently one promising lead. The board were told that a press show version of A Stone’s Throw will be put on at The Arches, inviting primarily people in the industry in order to gain feedback on the piece and that more news would follow on this.
In addition, an open-air version of A Stone’s Throw will be performed at Solace Festival, South Lanarkshire on the 26th June. STaG Members are encouraged to go in support and watch this performance.
Just before the start of the Fringe, a fundraising walk from Glasgow to Edinburgh will take place. Volunteers should express their interest to someone on the A Stone’s Throw team soon.
The board were informed that the A Stone’s Throw website will be launched on 9th June, in time for publication of the Fringe guide (which will advertise the site alongside the play).
Additional fundraising ideas include those appealing to children in particular such as face-painting and S. MacDonald’s coin spiral idea. It was suggested that these could take place alongside West End Festival events. C. Felstead also mentioned the possibility of an origami workshop for children. S. Gregson pointed out that something of an origami expert, and a good amount of organisation would be required. C. Felstead assured the board that care would be taken in doing this for any fundraising idea executed.
The STaG Ball
The ball was declared a success with good attendance on a par with the last three years.
C. Felstead pointed out that anyone wishing to cash cheques should do so soon before the official signatories change. E. Igelström agreed to inform people of this in the newsletter.
C. Felstead pointed out that there was food wastage at the ball. A. Rutherford suggested more of a per-head food plan and itemised budget for next year’s ball.
Mixed feelings were expressed about the quality of the photographer, although the redundancy of his keyring stall was unanimously agreed on.
Archives
C. Felstead reminded the group that an Archive meeting will be held on Friday at 4pm, with location TBC. This will be emailed once known.
Freshers’ Week
It was pointed out that without D. Keenan in attendance it was difficult to move forward with any bigger decisions, however it was agreed that he should continue to seek helpers and delegate tasks.
A.Rutherford raised concerns about the time it might take to print t-shirts in time for Freshers’ Week. The benefits of both in-house and online printing services were discussed. The board are reminded to buy t-shirts (orange only for Freshers’ Week) in preparation for Freshers’ Week.
C. Felstead showed an enthusiasm for the return of hoodies. S. Gregson expressed a dislike for hoodies. No one conclusion was made.
New Talent
It was acknowledged that Roald Dahl’s stories has previously been a popular idea. C. Felstead aired concerns that a decision needed to be made over the summer in readiness for the new academic year, and yet paradoxically this was the hardest time to get the whole board together at once. It was agreed that those in attendance would have to make an attempt at making a decision, and emailing absentees to check for concerns/issues.
S. Gregson pointed out the importance of the rehearsal process in terms of conveying a sense of professionalism and knowledge, as well as a sense of fun, to those new to STaG.
Three plays proposed were James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Fantastic Mr. Fox. Some issues with the above were raised. E. Igelström introduced the idea of using A.A. Milne’s adaptation of The Wind in the Willows, Toad of Toad Hall which appealed to him because of its creative malleability, large cast, and chorus of a flexible size.
The board agreed that, regardless of play, it was very important to carefully choose directors who would be supportive, well-organised and friendly, as the ‘face of STaG’ for Freshers involved in New Talent. It was agreed that, as in the past, the G.U Debates Chamber is ideal for the performance of the New Talent work.
It was agreed that the board would examine the Toad of Toad Hall script, discuss it and make a decision as part of A.O.B.
Facebook-gate
Changes on Facebook threatening the safety of STaG’s online collection of photos, wall-posts and other history were angrily moaned about by all.
In particular, C. Felstead pointed out the value of all the posts on the original Facebook group created several years ago by R. Jones, particularly with regards to helping build the archives. She suggested attempting to save this information. A.Rutherford explained that this was indeed possible. T. Pennock will attempt to save, back-up and if possible transfer the photos that may disappear. E. Igelström pointed out that when the group eventually is terminated in favour of a ‘Page’, someone will actually win Last Person to Post Wins. The thought of this made everyone momentarily very uncomfortable.
Next Meeting
C.Felstead asked for a response to the idea of an online meeting whereby the board members available to do so could convene online from their respective locations. Skype was suggested as the preferred medium for this and typing far better than attempting to source microphones etc. A.Rutherford agreed to organise this and contact the relevant parties.
A.O.B
S. Gregson informed the board that after exploring another avenue via MSA, Estates and Buildings have approved the idea for STaG to install their own doorbell. He explained that STaG could, contrary to previous beliefs, organise this themselves. S. Gregson agreed to be in charge of taking the next relevant steps with this.
A. Rutherford outlined the research he had done into getting himself a Working at Heights certificate, allowing STaG to carry out more of their own technical work in different venues, without the need to pay for an in-house member of staff. It was suggested, with the vastly varying prices of these (between £25 and £700) that A.Rutherford would contact some prospective theatres asking what level and quality of certificate they normally ask for, so that no money is wasted investing in the wrong course.
I. McArthur expressed a need for more permanent photographer so that rehearsals and performances were better and more consistently documented for publicity and archival purposes. After different suggestions, E. Igelstöm and S. Gregson were selected as best-suited in-board members to help with this when available to do so. Although the possibility of using photographers from past events was not dismissed. I. McArthur will make a more concise contact list of potential photographers for current and future use.
A. Rutherford raised the possibility of looking into liability insurance with regards to technical work. It was agreed that this was worth researching and he will do so.
I. McArthur mentioned some ideas surrounding a temporary events licence, and it was concluded that this was best outlined later in the academic year when more board members could be in attendance and all the legal documentation to hand.
S. Gregson expressed an interest in building some staging for the STaG Room in its future use as a studio space. Research has revealed buying rather than making it would be very expensive. S. Gregson also mentioned the importance of sourcing a blackout curtain for the space. S. Gregson and E. Igelström both agreed that STaG could benefit from investment in a better set of power tools. A. Rutherford explained some of the elements required to make staging soundproof.
E. Igelström and S. Gregson returned with a copy of the proposed play text The Toad of Toad Hall for New Talent nights and, after examining it and discussing its potential, all agreed that it was very well suited. The board agreed to contact absentees so that they might express any concerns about this choice should they have them.
A meeting about the website will be held Thurs, 5pm in the STaG Room. An additional meeting about the Archives will be held on Friday 3rd at 4pm, with location TBC by C. Felstead. The next general board meeting will be online, on the evening of Monday 6th June. A. Rutherford will contact board members with more information on how this will be organised.

Minutes 21st May 2011

2011-05-30T06:35:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 21/05/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, C. Felstead, D. Keenan, L. Monkman, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, Erik Igelstrom, H. Allan

Apologies: I. McArthur, L. Taylor, T. Pennock

Agenda

1) Mainstage
2) Venues
3) 5 Minute Theatre
4) A Stone’s Throw
5) STaG Ball
6) Fresher’s Week
7) New Talent
8) A.O.B.

Some tickets for the ball were sold.

1) Mainstage
The feedback has been returned and a meeting with Sophie was held. L. Monkman talked her through the board’s concerns and said more detail in her proposal would be useful in future. The board wondered whether the proposal form needs revised in order to make it clearer what is wanted. The website will make the proposal section clearer. G. Bennett-Lurie will send the director’s pack onto Josh and ask if he has any questions. He needs to start thinking about fundraising, publicity etc.

2) Venues
No meeting has been held at Cottier’s yet but one will be arranged soon. S. Gregson will also email the G12 and The Ramshorn and perhaps the theatre L. Taylor has mentioned. A bigger venue could be useful for a Shakespeare play.

3) 5 Minute Theatre
The audition turn out was ok, it was fun but people felt maybe the auditionees were there for fun rather than to be involved. There will be more on the 22nd and a facebook message will advertise this. GUST have confirmed they can film it. A poster has been designed but maybe isn’t necessary for publicity due to the small audience. It could go up in the shop to advertise STaG. It could also have information about where to watch the performance and have STaG, GUST and the shop logo on it. The idea of miming shoes will be discussed.

4) A Stone’s Throw
The swap shop went well and £147.67 was made meaning we are almost halfway to our £500 target. The cast are still looking for a flat to stay in. Rehearsals will start soon.

5) STaG Ball
The board will meet at 2pm to help decorate the STaG room. They will meet at 8am on the 24th to clean up. Food will be made on Monday before 2pm. F. Bird has not yet confirmed where food will be bought so C. Felstead suggested meeting at 3pm at Lidl on the 22nd. The poster has not been collected yet so when they are it was suggested they could be made into bunting. D. Keenan, A. Rutherford and C. Goldstone will go to collect them on Monday. Awards will be made tomorrow and Monday, and the deadline for voting will be Sunday at 5pm. H. Allan will look for a photographer.

6) Fresher’s Week
D. Keenan has received a few emails regarding helping at Freshers week. S. Gregson outlined past fresher’s ideas and emphasised the need to be friendly and social not just focused on doing plays. D. Keenan wants to brainstorm ideas people may have. L. Monkman suggested a theme that links in with events later in the year. A performance shouldn’t be rejected but a good venue and performance is necessary.
Definites are: BBQ, workshops, games, QMU fresher’s event, cocktails, fresher’s stall, membership cards, quiz, shifty STaG bear-hunt, greater presence on campus
We could help freshers move into the less popular halls eg Caincross. Special fresher’s posters would be good and the idea of origami flyers were discussed. Having a presence at other uni campuses would help to advertise the welcoming nature of STaG.

7) New Talent
S. Gregson outlined what has been done in the past. It is important to remember there will be a large amount of people auditioning so plays need a large cast so everyone can be involved. Directors need to be good and friendly. A unanimous vote ruled out 1 play 1 cast as it is too difficult and a large chorus will be needed. Small sketches wouldn’t be good either as it rules out social opportunities. A well-known play would attract a large audience.
Possible plays suggested were: Animal Farm, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Wizard of Oz, The Crucible, Wind in the Willows, Lord of the Rings, Lion the With and the Wardrobe, Fantastic Mr Fox
A Roald Dahl theme was suggested. Multiple plays brings up issues with finding good directors.
The format is undecided but leaning towards doing 2,3 or 4 plays. The play has not yet been decided either but the board is encouraged to think about it for the next meeting.

8 A.O.B.
The next board meeting will be at 5.30pm on Tuesday 31st May.

Minutes 16th May 2011

2011-05-18T15:45:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 16/05/2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, L. Monkman, A. Rutherford, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, E. Igelstrom, H. Allan, L. Taylor

Apologies: I. McArthur, D. Keenan,

Agenda

1) Mainstage
2) Play in a Day Reflection
3) A Stone’s Throw Update
4) 5 Minute Theatre Update
5) STaG Ball
6) A.O.B.

1) Mainstage
Josh came to the meeting to discuss his proposal for Much Ado About Nothing. He was very excited about tackling the play and wanted it to look “slick” and a bit like Ocean’s Eleven. He wants music to be a key feature of the performance and would like it to be played throughout and he will write and record the music for this. He suggested changing some gender roles but mainly keeping the text the same with perhaps a bit of scene shuffling. Josh would like an assistant director and a stage manager to help. The setting of the play could be an exotic island but there is no planned location in the world. He said costume plans so far are just quite modern but nice – summer dress etc.
Sophie was not present at the meeting but emailed answers to questions asked by some of the board with regards to her Romeo and Juliet proposal. Her fundraising ideas were great and the board was impressed with her ideas for socialising. She wanted a modern/gang-style idea running through the play.
The board discussed both plays and decided to accept the Much Ado proposal. G. Bennett-Lurie is the board rep. The board was a bit worried about the amount of effort needing to be put in and encouraged him to do more work over the summer (in the feedback).
The board decided to meet with Sophie to discuss her proposal and give her some feedback so as not to discourager her. L. Monkman will do this. The feedback will include information on the lack of set being a worry for a mainstage and the concerns the board had over the possible lack of interest of people in physical workshops. However it was stressed we were very impressed with her ideas and her enthusiasm. We also liked her ideas of keeping the rhythm of the language going.
The feedback for Josh will question the switching of the gender roles as the board is unsure why it is being done. The board is available to help with auditions and finding a stage manager etc.

2) Play in a Day reflection
Overall the board felt it went well despite the low turnout. C. Felstead was unimpressed with the lack of punctuality from the board and felt this should be improved on as well as encouraging more interaction with participants from the board. The low turnout could be due to the exam period. There was a lack of “moulding and shaping” and the day needed more structure to it. The audience turnout was good and people enjoyed it. A. Rutherford suggested perhaps it was too early in the day for people to come as “students are lazy”. The idea could be kept in mind for next year at some point.

3) A Stone’s Throw Update
The board was encouraged to bring things to the swap shop and also to bake if they can. The mask workshop is being organised and the masks have been ordered so hopefully will be here on time. The tickets will be ready for Wednesday.

4) 5 Minute Theatre Update
The venue has been decided and will be at Ruby Tuesdays on Bath Street. It is likely to be filmed on the 31st (which is a Tuesday – haha) The STaG room has been booked for auditions. People were asked if they have anything they wouldn’t mind being auctioned in the auction at the STaG Ball after party where T. Pennock will act as auctioneer. The performance will be filmed by GUST… somehow.

5) STaG Ball
The plan is to have STaGosaurous at the ball in a suit of sorts and have people pose for pictures with him. The awards will go in the newsletter again to encourage people to vote.

6) A.O.B.
THE NEXT BOARD MEETING IS ON THE 21ST MAY AT 5:30PM
A facebook page will be made as groups are being fazed out.
E. Igelstrom wants to start thinking of how the website will be re-vamped. “The lads” are in charge of this and C. Felstead and (maybe) I. McArthur will also be involved in this. A meeting will be held soon.
Freshers helpers will be sought out in the newsletter.
S. Gregson, A. Rutherford and H. Allan are meeting at Cottier’s Theatre on Tuesday to have a look around.
L. Monkman is already looking for places for STaG Nights and asks the board to have a look/think too.
Email settings will be emailed round by S. Gregson.

Minutes 9th May 2011

2011-05-18T15:44:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 09/05/2011
Board turnover, part 2.
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, T. Eaton, J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay, D. Keenan, E. Burckhardt, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, T. Pennock, C. Goldstone, G. Bennett-Lurie, D. Di Rollo, Erik Igelstrom, H. Allan

Apologies: I. McArthur, L. Taylor

Agenda

1) A Stone’s Throw Update
2) 5 Minute Theatre Update
3) Play in a Day Update
4) STaG Ball
5) Boal Workshop
6) Mainstage
7) Venues
8) A.O.B.

C. Felstead reminds the board to save everyone’s numbers and encouraged everyone to say something during the meeting.

1) A Stone’s Throw Update
S. MacDonald said they are planning to walk to Edinburgh before the Fringe starts in order to gain some money from sponsors and to raise interest in the piece. The dates for this will be decided when the dates for tech and dress rehearsals are known. She also encouraged the board to like the page on Facebook and follow the updates on Twitter. The swap and shop facebook event has been made and D. Hahn asked people to contribute and leave their contributions in the STaG room. This will take place on the 18th May. The bake sale today raised £54.35.
D. Hahn asked the board to look out for people who may have a flat available for the cast and crew to use in Edinburgh in August.

2) 5 Minute Theatre Update
The STaG room has been booked for auditions and Antoine wants to hold some workshops too but will see how the auditions go first. C. Goldstone is going to shops with some more information about the project to see if a location can be found soon. GUST or CUT need to be contacted soon to ask about filming the performance. A discussion followed about different types of camera that could be used and H. Allan got confused.
Antoine’s idea about repeating the performance for 3 hours was discussed and the board felt it may not be practical as it will be quite an intrusion on the shop we film in. There should be an emphasis on how it is for the NTS and so is a big deal. An advert will go in the newsletter asking for someone who plays an unusual instrument (like a banjo or a didgeridoo) to play music throughout the performance to heighten the sense of movement. Donations of shoes and shoe boxes are needed for the event.

3) Play in a Day Update
A meeting has been held and a schedule for the day has been sent out by email E. Burckhardt has asked for the bar from 7pm and the use of the room from 10am. She will also email the girl who is interested in helping with costume. People are worried there will be a low turn out in terms of audience and people getting involved so we need to advertise it as much as possible. H. Allan has contacted the QMU asking them to help with this. The board came up with some suggestions for characters, scenarios and places to help with the devising of it. D. Hahn, C. Felstead, F. Bird and G. Bennett-Lurie will run games at the beginning of the day. L. Monkman will be in charge of times/ keeping to the schedule. J. May will be “moulding and shaping”
The budget for the day will be £30 for costume £20 for set. 100 A6 flyers will be printed to advertise it.

4) STaG Ball
The idea of sending out the poster image as an invite to the mailing list was discussed and this needs to be done as soon as possible. Decorations need to be organised soon and so do the awards. Posters haven’t been picked up yet but when they are they will be put in the STaG room for people to collect. Tickets will be sold at Play in a Day and at the Swap shop. They will be £12 advance and £15 on the door.

5) Boal Workshop
So far 15 people are interested in taking part which is great! The venue has been booked but S. MacDonald will double check she has a confirmation from the GUU.

6) Mainstage
1 proposal so far and the director will be invited to the next board meeting to discuss it. The deadline is Friday 13th May and this will be re-advertised in the newsletter.

7) Venues
S. Gregson has contacted the Cottier Theatre and a meeting will take place on Tuesday/Wednesday. He will email the Ramshorn to see what is happening with regards to it closing down. The Arches have also been contacted and they said that they are mainly interested in less mainstream performances (eg New Writing etc).

8 A.O.B.
S. MacDonald loves everyone
S. Gregson asked the board to read the documents he sent out last week.
The STaG library is growing and will be re-advertised.

Minutes 2nd May 2011

2011-05-03T09:12:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 02/05/2011
Board turnover, part 1.
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay, D. Keenan, E. Burckhardt, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, T. Pennock, Catherine Goldstone, Gillian Bennett-Lurie, Dominic Di Rollo, Isobel McArthur, Erik Igelstrom.

Apologies: H. Allan.

Agenda

1) Introduction, initiation and reflections
2) A Stone’s Throw update
3) STaG Ball update
4) Play in a Day update
5) 5 Minute Theatre update
6) Winter 2011 Mainstage
7) Freshers Week and New Talent Nights
8) STaG Bell
9) Association Status
10) A.O.B.

1) Introductions, initiation and reflections
Outgoing President S. Gregson welcomed both new and old board to the meeting, explains that for the purposes of board turnover, both outgoing and incoming boards are present. Board meetings are every Monday at 5.30, in the STaG room and last roughly one and a half hours. S. Gregson then asked for the outgoing board to introduce themselves and pass on one piece of advice to the incoming board. These were:
S Gregson: Get involved with as much as you can!
C. Felstead: wants to see an amazing Freshers’ week.
T. Pennock: stresses the need for good communication and staying on top of things.
S. McDonald: wants to see STaG making links with other companies, communities and past members (ie. Herself). STaG to exist in the ‘wider theatre world’.
L. Monkman: desperate for STaGs on Tour.
A. McKay: please listen to one another.
T. Eaton: wants to see more publicity, more community work and more FUN.
D. Hahn: wants to see STaG’s continual growth, both in people and scope, but one that will accept her back next year!
L. Taylor: STaG should become a social hub.
A. Rutherford: continue the great FoundSpaces projects.
J. May: wants the board to learn from mistakes and distribute the work load effectively; also board family: ‘I wish I could bake a cake filled with rainbows and smiles and everyone would eat and be happy...’
F. Bird: hopes everyone in STaG continues to have a great time and to keep in mind that bringing people out of their shells is also a job of STaG’s.
D. Keenan: wants to see an absolutely massive Freshers’, and for board work not to be looked at as a chore.

Emails addresses and phone numbers were then taken by incoming President C. Felstead, and the board congratulated S. McDonald and J. May for their hosting of the elections.
2) A Stone’s Throw Update
S. McDonald updates that there is ‘not a lot’ to update. D. Hahn briefly outlines the upcoming fundraiser and S. McDonald asks for the support of the new board. The date for the fundraiser is set as Wednesday the 18th May, with D. Hahn creating a Facebook event and E. Burckhardt as general overseer. D. Hahn has been made co-production manager of A Stone’s Throw and an email have been received from Zoo Venues (detailing a weekly karaoke!)
3) STaG Ball Update
F. Bird says that cyber-meetings will be held for the next week or so as exams are very stressful. Awards, both joke and real, need to be finalised as soon as possible and the membership need to be informed about and encouraged to exercise their right to vote… Confirmation from ceilidh band received, but F. Bird says they have not finalised at what time they’ll be playing. F. Bird to look into the P.A. system and the charge for it. E. Burckhardt suggests selling tickets prior to the Ball. The board decides that tickets will be sold at Play in a Day, the A Stone’s Throw fundraiser and by board meetings in the run up to the ball at a reduced cost of £12. The figure of £15 is still applicable for tickets bought on the door. T. Pennock stresses vigilance in money/ticket keeping. A. Rutherford volunteers to make/design tickets.
4) Play in a Day
L. Taylor has been forced to abdicate her role as organiser; reassigned to D. Keenan and E. Burckhardt. There will be a committee meeting for Play in a Day on Friday 6th May at 5pm in the STaG Room. All available board members are encouraged to attend. L. Monkman & E. Igelstrom will inform membership via. newsletter about the desire for ‘stuff’ (construction cardboard, string, material etc. and props). A. McKay unveils posters which are to be placed around campus, this week by old board, new board next week, remembering not to post in Library or SRC building sans stamp. Play in a Day is Sunday 15th May from 9.30 am.
5) 5 Minute Theatre
Director A. Cordier may have confirmed a location but no one is sure. There is much debate about shoes. I. McArthur and C. Goldstone volunteer as Stage Manager and Production Manager for said shoe-show. A designer is to be found, and an eye is to be kept on the realisation of the term ‘movement’.
6) Winter 2011 Mainstage
Application deadline is Friday 13th May, with the weekend given to the board to read the proposals before discussion the next week. Board members are to encourage any applicants. S. Gregson (straddling the role of President and Venues Manger) will re-contact both the Cottiers Theatre and The Arches re: performances late November. The James Arnott and Ramshorn Theatre are both still options
7) Freshers’ Week and New Talent Nights
S. Gregson notifies the board that they should start thinking about both Freshers’ Week and New Talent Nights. Much to E. Burckhardt’s dismay, a discussion does not follow.
8) STaG Bell
Post-meeting-ously J. May adds that both Play.com and Amazon.co.uk have cracking wireless doorbells for £8 and up. The reviews of even these cheap ones are very strong, and to avoid eternal damnation from the “mature” students, a bell should be invested in as soon as possible.
9) Association Status
S. McDonald reports back that becoming an association, even if available to STaG, is not something she feels the society would particularly benefit from at this point in time.
10) A.O.B.
Of course, S. McDonald takes the chair.
i) Archive; S. McDonald stresses the importance and amazingness of the archive. This must be continued once S. McDonald herself is archived. S. McDonald will forward amazing email with document of the committee’s findings thus far.
ii) S. McDonald believes that the society should push for greater subsidising from both the University and potentially past, ‘famous’ members.
iii) S. McDonald mentions that V. Beesley, an ex-STaG member, wishes to use the STaG Room as a rehearsal space over the summer in return for a free workshop. C. Felstead clarifies that A Stone’s Throw rehearsals would take precedence, and that Makeshift Broadcast, a theatre company created by ex-STaG members have also expressed interest in utilising the space over summer.
iv) S. McDonald will soon confirm the location of her Augusto Boal workshop. S. McDonald dislikes central room bookings.
D. Hahn also raises the issue of R.O.N (Re-open Nominations). In future, STaG must take care to ensure that the membership can feel the use of R.O.N. is open, accepted and not to be frowned upon. This would mean taking the issue a little more seriously. J. May agrees, but asserts that the membership did exercise this right this year, so hopefully we’re not off to a bad start!

Minutes 25th April 2011

2011-05-02T05:01:00.000-07:00

Board Meeting (in Sarah MacDonald Easter style!)

25th April 2011
So it’s Easter Monday but it’s certainly not a holiday for the STaG Board. Oh no. Without a crumb of chocolate (but unfortunately with a mentioning of the imminent Royal Wedding from Emily) in sight they fought their way through a cute chicken-roasted minutes laid fresh by Samuel Gregson. Ew. Missing the egg-strordinary meeting were Deborah Hahn, Harriet Allan and John May. In attendance were Samuel Egg Gregson, Sarah MacDonald (with the blessings of Ronald McDonald despite being needed to rear the chicks), Tom Pennock (counting peacocks), Lisa Taylor (for all your chicken fitted goods), Cerne Felstead (chicken instead), Lucy Monkman (no egg man), Emily Burckhardt (Royal wedding chick), Aileen McKay (MCCOOOOOOO), Flora Bird (cheep cheep *falls down a lift*), Tom Eaton (all gone!), Aidan Rutherford (can afford all chicks), Donal Keenan (keen chick)
1. A Stone’s Throw.
Had a very productive meeting today where we discussed fundraising and publicity ideas. Work will begin fundraising in the next few weeks. So stay tuned. We now have a twitter (follow stagstonesthrow.) Yes. We also have a website but as that needs updating we will keep it a wee secret egg for now. We had a budget meeting on Sunday which was good and we now know that we have to work very hard to make money (and ask very rich people for it in these hard times).
2. STaG Ball
Coming soon. Poster is complete and looks real fly. Getting sent off to the Print Shop soon. THIS THURSDAY at 630pm there will be a meeting to discuss the ball IN THE STAG ROOM (another meeting will be held at the earlier time of 10am if people cannot make the later one)
3. Mainstage
No one has proposed so far BUT it will be plugged at the elections and then an events page will be sent out on facebook NEXT WEEK. Sam is trying to hunt down the man at Cottiers and hopefully next week he will be presented to us.
4. Elections
This is when the meeting got really exciting. The exec is now closed (oooooo) and all positions so far have been filled with lots of spicey competition. BUT STILL KEEP PLUGGING people to go up for positions. It was decided that Sarah will host the event as it is her last ever elections (sob, she will be missed.) and she is in the process of selecting a co-host who will make her look even better looking.
We voted to have TWO ord board positions. This is good.
We had a long argument about STV (Single transferable vote) inspired by the recent election fever (the real elections). We have voted yes to this and anyone who is confused please feel free to contact Tom Pennock. It is very fair and only used when electing the ord board members (there are two). Sarah and the co-host will count all of the votes apart from the ord board where Tom and Sam who are specially trained in STV will take over.
The bar needs stocked and goods bought for the BBQ so Flora and Lisa will be buying stuff on Thursday.
Every board member must wear their STaG t-shit to the elections/BBQ.
5. Play in a Day
17 people clicked attending on facebook, which is great and we agreed that the event is to go ahead. There will be a sub-committee forming to organise the day (this will happen in the next week). Lisa suggested that we contact ex-members of STaG who will lend their skills to the workshop (Philippa, Katherine etc will be contacted in the next few days.) This is great as it really showing us trying to engage with the professional/upcoming world of theatre and create relationships with wider arts community.
6. 5 minute theatre
We’ve agreed the quality must be really excellent and so it is thought that a small committee must be formed (with a production manager and stage manager so as to keep a strong reign upon the project). This team should be made up of board members so to keep the board update and hopefully minimising mis-communication/project neglect. People should email there interest (round the whole board) this week.
Also Emily is visiting the shoe shop round the corner from the Primary and will (wearing a suit) try and get us access to their store to film.
We were discussing who we will get to film the piece and Sam is contacting someone who is really excellent at this sort of thing.
7. Meal
This is happening on the 18th of May. Details tbc. Since some cannot make it there will be a second (better) event on the day after the STaG Ball.
8. AOB
Sarah MacDonald will be holding an Augusto Boal/forum theatre workshop on Sunday the 22nd of May (tbc). African Health Care Project will be invited to attend this as Sarah is working with them and trying to incorporate Boal’s techniques into their work.

Love you all more than chocolate eggs.

Minutes 18th April 2011

2011-04-19T00:52:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Minutes 19th April 2011
In attendance: T. Pennock, C. Felstead, S. MacDonald, J. May, L. Taylor, A. Rutherford, S. Gregson
Apologies: T. Eaton, A. McKay, H. Allan, D. Hahn, F. Bird, L. Monkman, D. Keenan, E. Burckhardt.
Agenda
1. The play formerly known as ‘Stripmine Ocean’.
2. STaG Ball
3. Mainstage production Winter 2011
4. Elections
5. Starter Packs
6. Minutes
7. ‘Tech Check’
8. G.U.U. feedback session
9. Play in a day
10. Meeting with Mature Students Association
11. Bell
12. A.O.B.

1. The play formerly known as ‘Stripmine Ocean’
S. Gregson asked S. MacDonald for an update. S. MacDonald confirmed that the text for the Fringe Guide had been submitted today (on the deadline). The play has been renamed ‘A Stone’s Throw’, and henceforth will be referred to as such. The board discussed whether this a ploy to get our production in the ‘A’ section of the guide, or to assure concerned parents there will be no stripping in the production.
The production is currently undergoing ‘team assemblage’, and S. MacDonald is aware that fundraising should start as soon as possible. STaG also received an offer from C Venues (for C Soco) today, which was very reassuring (but of concerning lateness seeing as the advert deadline was today…). S. MacDonald also says that STaG were contacted by Underbelly and that in general, they were very happy with the responses received.
S. MacDonald: A Twitter account has been created for the production, and website creation is under consideration. T. Pennock raises concern that a domain purely for one run, with a very common name, may prove expensive. J. May meant to but forgot to suggest a ‘full-time’ STaG fringe-purpose website with short, snappy URL, e.g. www.stagfringe.com for ease of advertising etc.
2. STaG Ball
In absence, F. Bird sends a message that she would like a meeting next week. The Board asks when, where, etc. and await response/further contact from F. Bird. General consensus that greater attendance at meetings is necessary, C. Felstead acknowledges that some miscommunication etc. has hindered this.
C. Felstead also reminds board about the STaG Ball prizes. L. Monkman said previously that she would create a bank of prizes, but does she need assistance from the board with this? Everything going A-O.K.?
3. Mainstage production Winter 2011
S. Gregson says that a blurb needs to go in this week’s newsletter, and S. MacDonald commits (then forgets and is reminded) to writing this and sending to L. Monkman. A deadline for submissions is set as Friday the 13th (the board ‘oohs’) May, to read the proposals over the weekend and discuss them at the board meeting on the 16th May.
S. Gregson addresses issue of G12-which-doesn’t-exist’s potential bias towards Theatre Students or lack of availability for our preferred period, and highlights the Cottier Theatre, The Ramshorn and Arches as three other possible venues. S. Gregson stresses the need for a theatre venue for mainstages. L. Taylor suggests researching other options, which is met with considerable apathy; venue searching is soul-destroying. S. Gregson emailed, phoned and will finally meet with the Cottier’s ‘man’ next week, after emailing for confirmation…
4. Elections
C. Felstead says blurb should go into this week’s newsletter, but is not to be copied and pasted from a previous edition. Need to drum up enthusiasm and fervour for said elections. S. MacDonald volunteers to write inspiring and life-affirming blurb and send to L. Monkman.
C. Felstead believes the elections to be ‘shaping up’ and ‘looking better’ now we have manfiestos and Facebook events online. Concern raised that many members are nominating themselves for the role of Ordinary Board Member. Whilst the constitution allows for 2 Ord Boards, S. MacDonald feels people should ‘go for the top!’ (whilst reaffirming her belief in the inherent importance of the role of the Ordinary Board Member).
L. Taylor raises concern with format of applying for elections; website is a little cluttered and confusing. L. Taylor originally posted her manifesto as a comment on the election page. T. Pennock says this can and should be deleted to avoid further confusion.
S. MacDonald seems agitated still; J. May feels she has ‘a general concern for life’. S. MacDonald wants ‘fresh blood’.
In the interests of good sportsmanship, the Board decides it should be common practice to ‘attend’ all election invitations on Facebook.
5. Starter Packs
S. Gregson reminds the board that starter packs are due on the 1st May, and must be electronically submitted to him. The board is invited to send round their packs for helpful hints, suggestions etc.
6. Minutes
Minutes are now available to read by the general public on the STaG website, under the ‘Board’ tab. Lucky public.
7. Tech Check
Tech check, where the tech is checked, still needs to occur. L. Taylor suggests a date after the 3rd of May to suit. G12 Technician T. Sweeten is preferred, but other people can be contacted via the Yellow Pages.
8. G.U.U. Feedback Evening
Was held this evening. S. Gregson extended the invitation to all those present, encouraging them to come and enjoy the nibbles with him.
9. Play in a Day
L. Taylor and C. Felstead bicker over exactly how many people have expressed interest via their joint email account; this number is either three or four. General concern that interest is extremely limited and niche. S. MacDonald believes the blurb should reappear in the Newsletter, as first on the agenda. L. Taylor agrees to creating a Facebook event, which will also stress the going-ahead of the event is dependent upon the interest presented (“DON’T JUST PRESS ATTENDING!”). Poster and publicity ideas were briefly discussed with A. McKay.
10. Meeting with Mature Students Association
Attended by S. Gregson and felt to be of little real worth. President of MSA to contact Estates and Buildings about getting an extra bell fitted purely for STaG use, although we have already done so. L. Taylor suggests buying our own, relatively cheap, bell and attaching it. J. May points out that the orange wood sign and chalk sign are allowed and already present, so a small bell-push would hardly provide sight pollution. J. May also suggests using temporary ‘sticky-tabs’ as adhesive, not screws, so as not to damage the building/enrage staff. S. Gregson suggests, as we have not received any SRC funding this year, that we could apply to them for a grant for the ridiculously expensive £160 fee. J. May says he will research bells. S. MacDonald plans to boobytrap the bell by replacing it with an air freshening device. S. MacDonald also to research why we are a society and not an association, and why this means we are not allowed a real University sign/location on the map.
11. Bell
The board discusses, at length, the possibilities of a launch night for the bell. This could potentially take the form of a fundraiser.
12. A.O.B.
Unsurprisingly, S. MacDonald has A.O.B.; updates the board on the STaG Archive team and their brilliant efforts (see S. MacDonald’s email ‘STaG Archive’, 18/04/2011).
J. May forgets to update board on Community Theatre Projects. After the success of the first STaG Community Theatre Production of Mavis’s Shoe at the Aye Write! Festival, a second performance was held in the Sauchiehall Street WH Smith. Two further performances have been confirmed at the West End Festival, and STaG Community Theatre is collaborating with GUST in order to film the production for use by the Scottish Book Trust as an educational resource.

Minutes 11th April 2011

2011-04-18T01:58:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Meeting 11/04/2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, A. Cordier.
Apologies: J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay, D. Keenan, E. Burckhardt, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, T. Pennock, H. Allan.
Agenda
1) Stripmine Ocean
2) No Way Out Postmortem
3) Miss Julie Postmortem
4) STaG Ball
5) 5 Minute Theatre
6) South Lanarkshire Festival
7) Elections
8) Board Starter Packs
9) Tech
10) Glasgow University Union
11) STaG Bell
12) QMU Workshops during Freshers
13) Play in a Day

1) Stripmine Ocean
D. Hahn explained the venue had been paid (at a cost of £1393) and that the run would be from 5th August to 20th August, with a 15 minute get in/out, with the production being performed in Zoo Roxy Den at 11.30am every morning. The slot is 45 minutes.
It was commented that the venue was small but best for the target audience. D. Hahn pointed out that the production manager needs to be picked earlier as D. Hahn has ended up doing alot of the PM’s responsibilities and it has been quite a task for her alone. An image is needed soon for the programme but it has not been asked for yet. Pictures of the production have been sent and a draft which was requested but at this point they did not state it was for the programme. It would be preferable if something better could be sent if the opportunity arises. S. Gregson pointed out that fundraising needs to begin with things like the West End Festival, and bake sales and other things that would be better to do during exam time. D. Hahn reported that they are waiting till after exams to start reworking the production, however A. Cordier explained that there were plans to take the production to schools which have been contacted, so they can try and gain feedback.

2) No Way Out Postmortem
Need to get photos for this production. A. Cordier described the experience as fun ; perfect space; very pleased with cast but could have done with more rehearsal time. L. Taylor commented that it is maybe not necessary to have such a small overlap between productions because many cast members in No Way Out had not been involved with New Works or One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. S. Gregson commented that it is necessary for things to overlap. A. Cordier thought that overall it went well, and that the general public passing by weren’t disruptive at all. D. Hahn suggested people should be stated to as to warn public in advance. A. Cordier reported that security hadn’t contacted janitors and there were minor complaints from the Adam Smith Library. They didn’t rehearse much in the space due to the weather. The performance in the GUU prior to production went well. S. Gregson commented that in outside productions projection needs to be focused upon even more. A. Cordier said he felt he couldn’t have had more support from the board, and was comfortable to ask T. Eaton (his board rep) for help. The production made £41 on the first night, but it is not yet known how much it made on the second night.

3) Miss Julie Postmortem
D. Hahn said it was “well good”, found line learning without rehearsals was a problem, and would probably have been better doing a “less wordy” play, however she maintained they definitely pulled it off, probably couldn’t have been done if flatmates had been home. GUST involvement was great. C. Felstead said watching in the next room was a brilliant feature. The production made no money. S. Gregson + C. Felstead described the production as intense. D. Hahn STaG should probably buy own its own projector.
L. Monkman commented on found spaces as a whole and said that proposals for found spaces do not need to have found a space already. L. Taylor suggested that the board should be in a position to recommend a number of spaces. D. Hahn commented that the board should remain responsible for booking the spaces but that it’s great to experiment.
4) STaG Ball
No progress on STaG Ball. Bar, venue and band are booked but no one has any other information. A programme has been made. L. Monkman is going to start pulling information together for the awards
5) 5 Minute Theatre
Waiting for response from NTS.
6) South Lanarkshire Festival
24th-25th June. C. Felstead said we need to find reviewers. D. Hahn also commented here that Underbelly and C Venues never got back to us regarding our applications for Stripmine Ocean.
7) Gary Gilchrist
No response as of yet
8) Elections
L. Monkman is going to put it out again in the email. It was agreed by all the board it was a really good to have all the manifestos together on the website.
9) Starter Packs
Starter packs must become digital this year, S. Gregson. It’s up to the board members if they want to amend or make a new starter pack considering all the changes to how things are run in STaG now compared to before. Starter packs must be ready by May 1st.
10) Tech
Dimmer rack still needs to be checked.
11) Glasgow University Union
Would like feedback on working with them by April 18th.
12) Bell
C. Felstead contacted estates and buildings and apparently the cost would be £160. Will find out if we can do it ourselves.
13) QMU Workshops
L. Monkman suggested workshops should take place both in the QM and the SRC tent.
14) Play in a Day
Needs to be advertised in newsletter for people to sign up with specific interests, they will contact L. Taylor.
It was agreed that the production should begin with a loose plot and this would enable all involved to devise around this loose plot.

Minutes 21st March 2011

2011-03-30T10:40:00.001-07:00

Stag Board Minutes 21st March 2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A.
Rutherford, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, A. McKay, D. Keenan
Apologies: T. Eaton, H. Allan

Agenda: 1. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Post Mortem 2. No Way Out 3. Miss Julie 4. 5 Minute Theatre 5. Stripmine Ocean 6. Gary Gilchrist Memorial 7. GUU 8. Play Readin Club 9. MSA Relations 10. Board Positions
1. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest Post Mortem
S. Gregson congratulated all involved. The play was a massive success with many new members taking part. W. Burnes thinks it went well overall but had a few issues communicating with the board. He felt let down by the board rep, L. Taylor, and didn’t have all the necessary information. C. Felstead suggested board rep should not be a technical manager because of conflicting interests. E. Burckhardt suggested redefining the venues manager role to account for some of the complications which arouse during One Flew. S. Gregson thought the role of board rep needed to be re-evaluated. The board rep should attend more of the rehearsals and have more of an involvement overall. Everyone involved with the production should be introduced to the cast and production team. J. May and S. MacDonald agreed, stating the board should make more of an effort to be at social events and introducing themselves to new members.
W. Burnes thought pack from last mainstage director was very useful and will write one for the next director. J. May suggested that 2 rooms were always necessary for auditions to avoid crowding hallways, C. Felstead agreed and thought booking rooms as early as possible was essential. D. Hahn believed the board rep should attend auditions.
S. Gregson will contact the Ramshorn regarding donations for programmes.
2. No Way Out
S. MacDonald reported that rehearsals were going well and the piece was on track for the performance at the Aids Awareness on 22 March. J. May reiterated importance of board rep position and felt more dedication was required.
3. Miss Julie
D. Hahn raised concerns about noise over the 24 hour rehearsal bothering neighbours. D. Hahn has contacted GUST and is awaiting more information. The capacity has been set at 7, with potential to increase should the live feed from GUST be possible. D. Hahn will randomly select audience members from those who show interest in attending.
4. 5 Minute Theatre
H. Allan cannot continue as board rep; C. Felstead will take over the position.
5. Stripmine Ocean
The Bedlam has agreed to give us a slot but S. MacDonald would prefer a thrust stage. A decision will be made on Wednesday whether to accept the Bedlam or hold out for another offer. Zoo venues is the directors’ preferred choice. C. Felstead and E. Burckhardt emphasised importance of keeping a good relationship with the Bedlam. S. MacDonald will advertise committee positions in this week’s newsletter.
6. Gary Gilchrist Memorial
E. Burckhardt suggested renaming a festival. J. May suggested renaming the STaG room, having an award in his memory or a fund in his name. S. Gregson thought renaming wasn’t enough - the memorial should be something new and lasting. S. Gregson and S. MacDonald will email G. Gilchrist’s friends with suggestions.
7. GUU
S. Gregson received an email from the GUU board to ask for feedback on the STaG’s experiences with the GUU. S. Gregson, C. Felstead, T. Pennock and L. Monkman will attend a meeting on the 18th April and eat the nibbles.
8. Play Reading Club
A collection of plays will be purchased and stored in the STaG room. The collection will be built upon regularly and provide the membership with access to lots of scripts. The club will meet regularly and a committee will be formed to organise it.
9. MSA relations
S. Gregson proposes buying a bell for STaG to reduce problems with MSA during socials.
10. Board Positions
Following on from the AGM, all board positions were discussed and amended. The list will become part of the constitution.

Minutes 14th March 2011

2011-03-15T13:55:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Minutes 14th March 2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, A. McKay, D. Keenan
Apologies: J. May
Agenda
1. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
2. No Way Out
3. Stripmine Ocean
4. Miss Julie
5. 5 Minute Theatre
6. AIDS Fundraiser
7. Social

1. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
The post mortem will take place next week. S. Gregson thought it went well and he had fun. It was sold out every night and it looks as though only a tiny loss was made. L. Taylor will email the cast and crew for their thoughts on how it went. The board wondered whether to keep the wood from the set and we decided if we can get a van then we can get it and keep it, otherwise L. Monkman will see if Will is still planning on selling it. L. Monkman collected £35 membership money from new people in the cast.

2. No Way Out
Rehearsals are going well and are everyday this week. Publicity plans are being finalised and posters should be produced soon. We can get another mention on Laura Stockwell’s Subcity show but the board felt they should ask her if she really doesn’t mind us always asking her. The show will be advertised in the newsletter and will be promoted at the social. The cast will collect donations at the end of the show. The board discussed using ushers so that the audience know where they should be during the show. T. Eaton will speak to Antoine about this.

3. Stripmine Ocean
More venues have been applied for and a venue needs to have been chosen by April in order to get into the fringe guide. S. MacDonald doesn’t have the fringe pack yet and it is being looked for. A committee will be formed and an email will be sent out to ask for feedback on the show as well as whether there is anyone interested in being in the committee. Fundraising needs to start as soon as possible, this can be in the form of bake sales etc. There will be a meeting with the cast on Wednesday to sort out who can and can’t do the Fringe show.

4. Miss Julie
The cast are learning lines and D. Hahn will email assistant directors next week to let them know the basic structure of the day. She will also ask them to think of warm ups and what they want to focus on in their session. At the moment the location is still unconfirmed. GUST may be interested in helping film it but this is yet to be confirmed. Once it is confirmed then we can see how many tickets we will release and how people can get them (auction, raffle etc). Publicity has not yet started.

5. 5 Minute Theatre
There have been 2 proposals from Antoine who came to discuss them with the board. The first proposal was involving a poem and a few people in a shoe shop. This may only be about one minute long however with choreography it can be extended. The other was a silent protest with blank placards and flyers. However the board was concerned this may be a little insensitive in the current climate. After a vote the shoe shop proposal was chosen and H. Allan will act as board rep. Copyright needs to be proven for the application and the deadline for this is next Friday (25th March).

6. AIDS Fundraiser
A 15-20 minute piece will be prepared for 22nd March at the GUU. Antoine and his cast may be interested in performing a preview of No Way Out.
7. Social
The STaG room has been booked and people on the board will be making pancakes. The bar needs stocked but this will be done by T. Pennock and D. Hahn. There will be a clean up in the STaG room on Saturday between 2-3pm.

Minutes: 7th March 2011

2011-03-08T04:28:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 7th March 2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, A. McKay, J. May

Apologies: E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, L. Monkman

Agenda
1. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
2. Lord of the Flies
3. Stripmine Ocean
4. Play in a day
5. STaG Ball/ Elections/ AGM
6. Miss Julie
7. Other Business

S. Gregson welcomed the new recycling bin to the STaG room (this week’s comedy)

1. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
Rigging will be done tomorrow evening rather than during the day as the venue has now said we are unable to get in until the evening. L. Taylor feels Will may not be telling her everything that is or isn’t done. He has asked for another financial meeting as there is some confusion regarding the budget and the money raised at the fundraiser. T. Pennock will meet with him to discuss the budget and what he may want to buy that the budget does not allow for. Friday and Saturday performances have both sold out. It will be put in the newsletter that there are still tickets available for Thursday. Publicity is going well and Will has said he will organize making a programme. This will also contain an advert for the social as well as the found spaces performance.

2. Lord of the Flies
Antoine is having meetings with the cast discussing what the plans for the play are. There will be rehearsals on Wednesday and Friday this week, T. Eaton will attend to see how it is getting on. They have already had a read-through of the script. Poster plans are in progress and a financial meeting is yet to be held. After a long debate the board decided a fundraiser should be held to raise awareness for the show as well as some funds for STaG’s future shows.

3. Stripmine Ocean
Venues have been applied for and C. Felstead is looking for the fringe pack to pass onto S. MacDonald. The same cast should be kept for the Fringe as they are all available. S. Macdonald will ask for feedback from anyone that saw the show in order to improve on it, this will be put in the newsletter. Fundraising needs to start as soon as possible. Siobhan has told T. Pennock she will give him the money she has from last year.

4. Play in a Day
The QMU has been booked on the 15th May. A committee will be formed within the board as well as out with it to get some ideas. The board will begin by discussing plans via email.

5. STaG Ball/ Elections/ Social
F. Bird asked if someone could stock the bar ahead of the next social. D. Hahn and T. Pennock will do this next week after the meeting. C. Felstead, A. McKay, T. Pennock and A. Rutherford will be making pancakes. It will be readvertised in the email this week.
The plans for the ball are going well so far and a date for the meeting will be sent out. The budget is on target so far. We have to pay £50 for the bar at the GUU but if we make £250 then we get this back. We are allowed nibbles and can get in from 2pm. We have to clear up by 12pm the next day. Ticket prices will be £15 and plans for publicity will be made this week.
There has been high interest in the elections so far. They will be advertised in the newsletter after the AGM.

6. G12
The cost for 2 janitors is £36 an hour Monday-Saturday and £46 per hour on a Sunday. Tech support is £16 an hour. The studio will cost approx. £540 for 3 days and the G12 will cost approx. £1040 for the same time. The board thought they would probably be able to get the production fund again which means it would be good to do a performance in there again. We will ask the theatre department when would be best to do this around late November/early December.
S. Gregson will email The Arches to ask about using there as a potential space in future.

7. Miss Julie
The play has been cast and scripts are being sorted out for it. D. Hahn is looking for a space and limited capacity is being taken into account. It was discussed whether the play could be screened via a live link up to increase audience numbers. This could involve GUST in the performance.

8. Other Business
S. MacDonald is going to email the Guardian and Qmunicate about them turning up to watch shows for free but not reviewing them to express our disappointment.
A radioplay was discussed and could be a future opportunity for STaG.

Minutes 28th February 2011

2011-03-04T03:31:00.003-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 28th February 2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, F. Bird, A. McKay
Apologies: E. Burckhardt, J. May
Agenda
1. New Works Post Mortem
2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
3. Lord of the Flies
4. Social
5. STaG Ball/ Elections/ AGM
6. Miss Julie
7. Other Business

1. New Works Post Mortem
The board congratulated D. Hahn for her work on the festival and it was agreed that it went well – the venue was good and there weren’t really any issues. The judges were impressed by Buff as a space and liked how the plays used the space differently, they were happy with their experience and said it was a good mix of people. It was suggested that in future more time for setting up and days rehearsing in the space would be beneficial. This is important to put in the pack for the festival manager next year. A longer rehearsal period – perhaps an extra week – would be helpful for devised pieces especially. L. Taylor suggested the deadline for proposals should be before Christmas and pieces can be chosen over the holidays.
Because the plays were in reading week it meant more people were available. Having the plays 4 days in a row was good but it can be difficult to find judges who are available for all 4 days. Approximately £500 profit was made and £43 was made on the announcement day.
It was suggested that the next judges should follow the same format as this time where each marked the plays individually before discussing them in a group as it allowed for objectivity.

2. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
Blocking will be finished tonight and Will will start doing runs from tomorrow. Accents are going well and those with difficulties are those who do not come to all rehearsals. Set materials have been ordered but not built yet and props and costume have mostly been sorted. So far only £5 of the budget has been spent. It is important to keep anything borrowed safe. Posters will be collected this week. Publicity is going well, a mention on Subcity and in the West End Express means people will hear about it. The fundraiser made £212.88 profit.

3. Lord of the Flies
There isn’t much to report at the moment. The play has been cast and rehearsals should be starting soon. T. Eaton will speak to him about this. Publicity and financial meetings need to be held soon, A fundraiser will be held and poster/publicity plans will start to be made. Umbrellas will be suggested in case of rain.

4. Social
There was an issue with booking the STaG room so the social is going to be held in Coopers instead. Next month’s social will be on the 20th March and will involve pancakes. It was stated that it is important as a society to have a regular social.

5. STaG Ball/ Elections/ AGM
The celidih band has been booked for 8.30-10pm. A. Rutherford will check to see if the GUU can give us the bar in the reading room for the night too. Similarly we will ask the GUU if they have speakers we can use for the DJ. L. Monkman asked the board if they can think of any silly awards to present to people. Decorations and posters need to have work done on them soon.
The elections will be held on the 1st May.
The AGM will be held before the social on the 20th March.
There will be a meeting about the ball on Wednesday between 4 and 5pm.

6. Miss Julie
The audition turn-out was good and call backs are being held on Wednesday. 7 people expressed interest in co-directing. The call-backs will emphasise how much effort there will be involved in a 24hour play rehearsal.
7. Other Business
Play in a day at the QMU will be provisionally booked for the 15th May.
A strip light is needed for OFOTCN, L. Taylor asked the board if they thought it would be worth buying one as it will be about the same price as renting one.

Minutes 21st February 2011

2011-03-04T03:31:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 21st February 2011
In attendance: T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, F. Bird, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, J. May, E. Burckhardt, L. Taylor, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan
Apologies: T. Eaton, S. Gregson, A. McKay
Agenda
1. New Works
2. Cuckoo’s Nest
3. Lord of the Flies
4. Marat
5. Community Theatre
6. Miss Julie
7. Other Business

1. New Works
D. Hahn was congratulated by the board and said she thought it went well. The Butterfly and the Pig have not asked for any money for the venue so we are going to assume it means the hire was free. £520 was made in ticket sales which gives an approximate profit of £400. The winner will be announced on Wednesday.

2. Cuckoo’s Nest
L. Taylor is concerned that Will may be falling behind schedule, set and costume have not yet been sorted however some props have been sourced from the Tron and the Citizen’s theatre. The fundraiser will be on Friday and the bar will be stocked prior to this.

3. Lord of the Flies
Audition turn out was not the best it could have been so more will be held next week. They will be better publicised.

4. Marat
S. Gregson emailed Libby to tell her we were unable to find a director and encouraged her to re-propose it next year.

5. Community Theatre
J. May will email the St. Enoch centre regarding the plans outlined in the email. He is also intending to make a pack for next year’s community theatre officer with some help tips in it.

6. Miss Julie
There has been lots of interest regarding co-directing however D. Hahn is unsure of how many people will audition.
7. Other Business
There will be a meeting tomorrow at 5pm in the STaG room to organise the ball. L. Monkman is excited. Poster plans will be decided on soon.
D. Hahn will book a fringe slot for the NWF winner over the weekend.

Minutes 7th February 2011

2011-02-07T13:12:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 7th February 2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, T. Eaton, J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay, D. Keenan
Apologies: L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt
Agenda
1. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
2. New Works Festival
3. Marat Proposal
4. Lord of the Flies
5. Play in a Day
6. Archive
7. Social/ STaG Ball
8. Other Business

1. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
So far one scene has been blocked. Rehearsals are given with short notice, as are room-booking requests at the QMU. S. Gregson will email the Cecilian society to ask them not to book the STaG room if they do not intend to use it as this could be a rehearsal space Will can use. A publicity meeting is yet to take place however A. McKay has had some ideas about possible posters. The cast still need to be memberised by L. Monkman.

2. New Works Festival
It is going well so far. D. Hahn is looking for transport for chairs and set between the venue and campus. A van could be hired as it will only be needed on the 15th at 3pm and the 17th at 10pm. S. MacDonald will ask the theatre department if we can borrow 20 chairs for the performances and T. Eaton will ask the SRC. We have been told if we don’t make £200 on the bar then the venue hire will be £50 per night. However, the board decided to try to make the bar money, this could be done by buying drinks for the judges as well as encouraging the audience to buy drinks. The space will not be locked however the venue has confirmed we can leave things there overnight. Directors have said everything is going well with rehearsals etc. The capacity for the venue should be about 40 people per night. It was suggested that directors publicise their shows as much as possible. D. Hahn will meet or email the judges to let them know about the criteria on which the plays should be judged. The board thought that the plays should be judged as more or less finished.
The fundraiser was very successful and raised £169.79. Izzy will be given a free festival pass to say thank you for making the cocktails. There will be a tech meeting on 9th February in the STaG room to make cables.

3. Marat Proposal
H. Allan is still waiting for a response from the original person interested. Another person emailed to express interest however and so a response is awaited. The board agreed that if nobody comes forward then the play cannot be put on.

4. Lord of the Flies
J. May emailed 29 schools to advertise the play. Antoine has emailed L. Monkman a blurb to advertise for actors and a director for the newsletter. C. Felstead will forward him a director’s pack.

5. Play in a Day
T. Pennock asked the QMU if the space was available on the 6th March however as it is not we will ask about the 5th or the 20th instead. It was also suggested if neither is possible then the new board could have it as a project.

6. Archive
It is going well so far and past members have been contacted. S. MacDonald suggested the executive board could have more involvement to make sure the archive is continues in the future. This will be brought up at the AGM. J. May suggested the university may have an old students email/newsletter that this could be advertised in.
7. Social/ STaG Ball
There will be a meeting on the 8th to plan the ball in the STaG room at 6pm. Ceilidh bands have been contacted and one has said it is willing to offer us two and a half hours for £250. This has been reserved until tomorrow when a permanent decision will be made. The GUU has been booked for the event. Catering was offered but as it is quite expensive F. Bird will ask the GU what we can bring ourselves for food. She will also ask what time it has to finish. The social will have some form of Blind-Date game and the room will be decorated before the board meeting on the 28th.
8. Other Business
A heated discussion about maybe occupying the G12 ensued…

Minutes 31st January 2011

2011-01-31T12:36:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 31st January 2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay
Apologies: L. Monkman
Agenda
1. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
2. New Works Festival
3. Tech Update
4. Death of Marat
5. Antoine’s Found Spaces
6. STaG Ball
7. Play in a Day
8. Other Business

1. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
Rehearsals have started and L. Taylor will be meeting William this week to get an update on how things are going. A rehearsal schedule has been sent out however the rooms are unconfirmed. The board spoke about how it is useful to know where a rehearsal will be prior to the day as it means people can make sure they are available. Some people have expressed concerns about how the gender reversals are meant to work when the script has been mainly unchanged. Similarly the American accents have worried some people as they were not made aware in the auditions that this was a requirement. The board wondered if accent workshops could be held to help people. T. Pennock will book a room for rehearsals at the QMU for 1st February. A meeting between Will and A. McKay will be held soon to sort out publicity for the show. Similarly plans for fundraising will need to be made as soon as possible. S. Gregson has been told we will be receiving the full £500 grant we asked for from the creative practice fund. L. Monkman will need to memberise the cast as soon as she can.

2. New Works Festival
D. Hahn is waiting for the man from the venue to get back to her regarding her list of questions. As he is away until Friday she will go and see him then and discuss the situation. The lack of storage means we may have to hire a van to keep things in which could cost about £20 a night however hopefully we can leave things in the venue. Posters have been finished and sent to A. McKay who will contact the printers to find out the price of printing them. The fundraiser is on Friday and people have been confirmed to perform at an open-mic style event. S. MacDonald asked whether the budget could be increased at all and was told that depending on what it was for this may be possible. She also asked for volunteers to help decorate the STaG room ahead of the fundraiser.

3. Tech Update
All the equipment has been ordered and most of it has arrived or is scheduled to arrive by Wednesday. L. Taylor asked people to help make cables. An operator will be advertised for in the newsletter along with people to make the cables.

4. Death of Marat
1 email has been received and H. Allan is currently waiting for a reply.

5. Antoine’s Found Spaces
A space has been decided on and security has been contacted for permission, which has been granted. We need to email them again with the dates and times confirmed. T. Eaton will ask Antoine what time he wants it and will advise him to put something in the newsletter as soon as possible regarding auditions and finding a co-director.

6. STaG Ball
The GUU seems like a good location for the ball as it will help to keep costs down so ticket prices can be relatively cheap. F. Bird will book it for the 23rd May and will look for a ceilidh band. The budget for the band is usually between £150 and £200 so the board is asked to keep an eye out for anyone they may know who can perform. The committee will meet soon to begin planning the event. It was discussed that a theme could be a good idea as it has gone down well in previous years.
7. Play in a Day
If the performance is put on just before exams then it needs to be organised and advertised well in advance so there is less to do on the day. It is important that several board members are there on the day to oversee things and make sure it all goes smoothly. A timetable for the day should be thought up and it would be good if people signed up prior to the day so that numbers in teams (eg. Tech, acting etc) can be known. It was suggested that script extracts could be given so that people involved have a rough idea of where the play is going and how to shape it. A provisional date for it is the 6thMarch and T. Pennock will ask at the QMU to see if this date is available as we will have to book the room for the whole day.
8. Other Business
F. Bird asked the board about their thoughts on a Valentine’s social which was agreed upon. Games and quizzes can be played and there will be an emphasis on friends rather than couples. T. Pennock objected on the grounds that he hates fun.
Food for the NWF fundraiser and alcohol for the bar needs to be bought. This will be done on Friday.
S. Gregson will email the Citizen’s theatre again to confirm the workshop that is supposed to be held on the 26th February.
J. May wants to do some community theatre and he will email out some ideas he has had so far. He will also email local schools to advertise the plays we are putting on as some of them are relevant to the curriculum.

Minutes 24th January 2011

2011-01-24T13:05:00.003-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 24th January 2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay
Apologies: D. Keenan
Agenda
1. Marat Proposal
2. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
3. SRC Grant
4. New Works Festival
5. Found Spaces
6. Social/ STaG Ball
7. Board Trip

1. Marat Proposal
Libby came to discuss her proposal in front of the board. S. Gregson outlined what he wanted to know about the proposal. Libby said she wanted to create a frenzied and exciting atmosphere in the play. She was willing to change parts of the play around in order to make it flow better if it needs to be changed. The main issue the board had with the play was the lack of a director however a unanimous vote said that we should advertise for directors in the newsletter to direct this play after proposing it to the board and Libby. H. Allan volunteered to be board rep for the proposal.

2. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
At the moment, not much is happening with regards to rehearsals. The Ramshorn have not yet given us a contract to sign but this will be chased up as soon as possible. One girl has pulled out of the performance and so her role will need to be recast.

3. SRC Grant
The deadline for applications is on Wednesday 26th. T. Pennock has a rough idea of the financial breakdown so the form can be filled in using that. J. May will fill out the form putting an emphasis on the wide membership involvement and the lack of financial assistance from the Ramshorn this year.

4. New Works Festival
The man at the Butterfly and the Pig has been quite unhelpful recently however a list of what we need from him will be emailed to him (e.g. tech requirements, storage etc.) The Arches is another possible space and we are waiting for a reply from them. The fundraiser looks like it will be successful with 2 performers already confirmed. Publicity is going well and a poster idea has been thought up involving using a fridge and letter magnets. There will be a mention on Subcity radio as well as possible competition with a prize of two free tickets to a show of the winner’s choice. The lighting desk and the new tech purchases will be ready for NWF.

5. Found Spaces
Antoine has found a space he wants to use for the performance near the steps by the Adam Smith building. T. Eaton will contact the university to check it is permissible to use this area. It will be put on in late March (23rd and 24th) as it is an outside play.

6. Social/ STaG Ball
The possibility of a Valentine’s special was discussed as well as a round up of the month style social. A quiz was thought to be a good idea however the board is asked to think more for next week. A committee for the STaG ball has been formed and a doodle will be sent to those interested to find out availability.
7. Board Trip
The board will meet at 16:40 on Friday 28th January at Queen Street Station to get the train to Stirling for the trip!

Minutes 17th January 2011

2011-01-24T13:05:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Meeting - 17th January 2011

In attendance: S. Gregson, D. Hahn, S. MacDonald, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, E. Burckhardt, A. McKay, D. Keenan, A. Rutherford
Apologies: F. Bird, T. Eaton.

Agenda
1. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
2. New Works Festival
3. Marat Proposal/ Found Spaces
4. Social
5. STaG Ball
6. Board Trip
7. Other Business

1. One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
S. Gregson asked William and Erin how they felt it was all going. William was pleased with the turn out for auditions and was pleased that there were a lot of new people who came to them. The read-through of the play will take place on the 18th January and a doodle has been set up to work out availability. The Ramshorn has been booked from the 7th – 12th March. Meetings with T. Pennock and A. McKay need to take place soon regarding finance and publicity. William took the opportunity to thank J. May for his tips on being a main stage director in the director’s pack.
L. Taylor and J. May reminded William that people might drop out despite originally seeming interested so to bear in mind other people who may be able to offer help. The rights cheque has been posted. A lot of publicity will be needed for the performance and it is already being advertised on the Ramshorn website. Ticket prices were agreed at £8 (£6).

2. New Works Festival
D. Hahn is waiting for confirmation of tech and dress rehearsals. She will also try to get a contact number for the Butterfly and the Pig in order to speed up communication and to arrange dates for directors to see the space. So far there are four confirmed judges but it would be good if one more could be found. S. Gregson suggested Drew Taylor and D. Hahn will email to ask. A publicity meeting and a finance meeting will be scheduled soon and we already have some publicity in the form of some mentions on Subcity radio. The posters for the event need to advertise the feeling of competition and the prize of the show being taken to the Fringe. The art school and photographers from La Ronde will be contacted to see if they have any ideas for the design. A message regarding the publicity committee will be put in the newsletter. So far audition turn out has been a bit low but this may pick up now the main stage auditions are over. J. May will look into getting a grant from the SRC.

3. Marat Proposal/ Found Spaces
Talking about this came with a lot of controversy however it was decided that H. Allan will have an informal talk with Libby to see if she would consider this as a found spaces piece. The board felt it could work well as a FS piece but some concerns were raised regarding whether or not it could be made well with a budget of only £60. It was decided that a decision will be made when more information regarding this play as a FS piece is given.
The idea of having a FS committee was raised as a lot of work is put into these pieces at meetings. However the board voted in favour of keeping the format the same for now but perhaps changing it for next year. The board voted in favour of putting on more plays this semester. An advert will go in the newsletter to raise awareness of FS and to encourage more proposals. As the plays are quite small-scale is it easy to facilitate putting more on each term.

4. Social
F. Bird emailed a suggestion of a Valentine’s social however more discussion will take place next week.

5. STaG Ball
A committee will be formed (although enthusiasm was high so looks like the whole board will be involved!) F. Bird would like some opinions of previous balls in order to get a better idea of what people want.

6. Board Trip
People need to pay for the trip (J. May, S. MacDonald and T. Eaton!) C. Felstead will look into trains we could get. S. Gregson asked for ideas of what people would like to do such as games or outings.

7. Other Business
J. May asked if anybody needs a bed for the next mainstage as there is one from La Ronde he is unsure what to do with. A. McKay asked for publicity ideas from anyone if they can think of any.

Minutes 10th January 2011

2011-01-12T10:22:00.000-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 10th January 2011
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, J. May, F. Bird, A. McKay
Agenda
1. New Publicity Officer
2. Review of last term
3. Survey & Personal Aims
4. QMU Fair
5. New Works Festival
6. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
7. Found Spaces
8. Subcrawl Social
9. Board Trip
10. Marat Proposal
11. Other Business

1. New Publicity Officer
The two applicants came to speak about why they wanted the role. S. Gregson welcomed them both to the meeting and some general questions were asked and answered. In the end A. McKay was elected following a majority vote by the board.

2. Review of Last Term
S. Gregson would like people to take more notes during meetings, be more punctual and for the board to prioritise meetings as many important matters have to be discussed and it is helpful if the whole board is available. E. Burckhardt thought about room booking issues and suggested it might be a good idea to book some weekend slots in the GUU or the QMU now so that plays have rehearsal space. L. Taylor and S. Gregson agreed that people need to do more and take more initiative in things. L. Monkman addressed the issues she has had with people sending her things late for the weekly newsletter and would like things sent by 5pm on a Tuesday. It was mentioned how STaG has more members than previous years and so is growing in strength. J. May thanked the board for their help with La Ronde. S. Gregson wondered if the board should have more “team bonding” events.

3. Survey Results & Personal Aims
Out of everyone who responded (13/14) everyone agreed that being on the board was an enjoyable experience. Similarly most people agreed that people could do more within the board to help others. However, despite this most agreed we did well last semester. Some brought up concerns about feeling their role on the board isn’t very well defined and ideas were talked about on how to remedy this. The board talked about their personal aims for this semester and the followings things were brought up:
More studio slots, more help for board members and directors, good NWF and a better platform for other plays not in NWF, more time with Tech and more meetings within the tech community, increase workshop attendance, start an inventory, see the board doing more as a team, keep the financial position of STaG up, see more social events, become more involved in STaG, advertise the society more to get new members, send something to the St Andrews Festival, more people involved in the STaG ball.

4. QMU Fair
The board was concerned it may not be well attended due to poor publicity by the QMU. L. Monkman will provide membership slips in case people wish to sign up. We can use the opportunity to advertise auditions and upcoming performances. The board will take turns being present at the stall.

5. New Works
So far there have been 11 proposals and judges have been selected. There are new people involved with the choosing committee which D. Hahn thinks is a good thing. There will be a meeting at the Butterfly and the Pig to talk about when a tech & dress rehearsal can take place and so that plans can be finalised. Auditions will be advertised once the plays are chosen and will go in a newsflash on Thursday repeated on Tuesday. D. Hahn will send a director’s pack to successful plays and publicity needs to start soon.

6. One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest
Auditions are taking place on the 12th and 13th at the GUU between 4pm and 7pm. W. Burns still wants to reverse gender roles in the performance however he has said he intends to avoid stereotypical characters such as weak women. He will be invited to the board meeting next week to discuss the play further. Finance and publicity meetings need to take place soon however there are 8 weeks until production week, which means there is a good amount of time to sort these things out.
7. Found Spaces
Production of this can take place after NWF to ensure an adequate amount of attention is given to them. T. Eaton volunteered to be the board rep for the first Found Spaces play. A location needs to be found so he will look into this. Two possible locations were SWG13 and the old bookshop in the John MacIntyre building.
8. Subcrawl
F. Bird has made a plan of pubs that can be visited on the day
9. Board Trip
Can everyone on the board please pay for the trip!
10. Marat Proposal
The board will discuss this in more detail next week.
11. Other Business
The booking system online is fully functional
Glasgow Music Theatre want to borrow our dressing screen from the 15th to the 22nd January. The board agreed to this as long as it is returned promptly and is not damaged.
The National Student Drama festival is coming up with the deadline for applications on the 4th February. It was suggested that something STaG has already performed should be submitted to ensure quality. However it costs £100 for someone to come and watch it. S. MacDonald will email more information to the board

Minutes 13th December 2010

2010-12-18T09:31:00.003-08:00

Monday 13 December 2010

In attendance: J. May, D. Keenan, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, L. Taylor, T. Pennock, S. Gregson, C. Felstead

Apologies: D. Hahn, H. Allan, L. Monkman, E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, T. Eaton

Agenda:
1. La Ronde Postmortem/Reflection
2. QMU Meeting
3. Social
4. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
5. New Works
6. Publicity Officer
7. Plans for Next Semester
8. Community Theatre
9. AOB
10. Christmas

1. La Ronde Postmortem/Reflection
Despite many problems along the way, J. May said he was very happy with how the show turned out. Publicity was felt to be a major problem with the show. John also felt that the relationship between the board and directors could be closer, saying that if he hadn't already known people on the board he would have felt very isolated. There were a lot of things that he was not aware he would have to sort out himself, for example getting a photographer. John suggested a weekly meeting between the board rep and the director would be beneficial.
C. Felstead suggested that for future shows there should be a "Plan B" for the set organised ahead of time. S. Gresgon asked if the set could have been constructed earlier. J. May said that the size of the set made this difficult as there was nowhere to store it. There was originally a plan to construct and store the set in the G12 but this fell through.
J. May felt there were problems with getting people to help, saying that many people would reply to emails saying they could but end up not coming. C. Felstead said that as a last resort the board should be available as backup. The role of assistant director was discussed, and was generally agreed to be a vital role. L. Taylor said that assistant directors often get jobs they may not have been expecting to do, and that the role needs to be better defined. The idea of an Assistant Director Pack was proposed. L. Taylor will be writing this with C. Felstead over the holidays in time to be of use for One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. C. Felstead said it was important to inform people how much they would have to do when helping in shows, although it was important not to put people off as not many people apply anyway. J. May suggested people propose themselves as Stage Manager, as dedication is important.
The sofa from the Salvation Army and the wood from the set will be returned later this week by J. May. S. Gregson stressed the importance of being careful and courteous when dealing with businesses, as they will have a longer memory than STaG will. C. Felstead asked if the set could have been dismantled during the run, but according to L. Taylor there was not enough time to deal with this while sorting out all the other stuff that was going wrong.
L. Taylor and S. Gregson stressed the importance of the board not taking criticism of how things were going by the board representative as criticism of the director specifically. S. Gregson asked about ways to encourage board involvement. The idea of assigning roles was generally agreed to not be realistic. Although people often don't have time there needs to be more encouragement of board members to help out more with miscellaneous jobs.
J. May said he found the Director's Pack very useful for initial preparation, but as the production went on the given schedule slipped considerably. The board was not made sufficiently aware of when things should happen. In future, members of the board involved in tech, publicity and finance need to be more proactive. More meetings with the director as a board were deemed to be a good thing. C. Felstead suggested giving out phone numbers of the whole board to the director in order to make contact easier.
The idea of feedback and passed on information was discussed. J. May felt that feedback from one mainstage to the next would be helpful, and that he would be willing to write this to be sent on to the next mainstage's director by the relevant board rep. S. Gregson felt that building on director's packs and starter packs was a lot better than passing on information verbally, as packs helped encourage building on previous information. This is particularly important this year as the board has changed dramatically, and there is a high number of people involved who were not previously. Although S. Gregson was quick to point out that the STaG ship hadn't sunk yet. An extended nautical metaphor was explored by the board.
C. Felstead suggested that more warm-ups would have been beneficial, citing feedback received from the cast. J. May said that the rehearsal schedule and the nature of the play - two actors at a time, with one leaving as another entered - made warmups difficult. S. Gregson said that the importance of warm-ups was not always made clear, and that the list of warmup games in the Director's Pack should be extended. T. Pennock briefly wondered to himself if anyone would actually read all of this, but decided to press on anyway.
J. May suggested a weekly meeting with the board rep would help directors be more aware and willing to discuss problems. C. Felstead said that not much was brought up with her by the cast until after the show. There was concern that the board rep could be seen as a criticising overseer, and that it was difficult for directors to bring up problems. J. May felt a weekly or fortnightly meeting would help with this too, as it would encourage a closer relationship and a better environment for bringing up problems. L. Taylor also suggested that the board rep could take on some stage management responsibilities.

2. QMU Meeting
S. Gregson, C. Felstead and T. Pennock had a meeting with the QMU last week about how La Ronde was handled. While the karaoke upstairs on the Sunday remains a mystery, the General Manager gave the impression that he wasn't happy with how the QM handled the event. The end result was a reduction in the cost of venue hire for this event from £1200 to £900, and also an extra night in future for free with full tech support.
Those present who had been involved with La Ronde on the night expressed concern over using the QM again this year, saying they had not felt welcome there and had had difficulties with the staff. There was concern that another night at the QM would just be the same thing again. It was generally agreed that STaG should not book other additional days around the free one. L. Taylor felt that it would be a lot of work for one night.
C. Felstead and S. Gresgon said that it was important to give the QM a second chance, and that it would be nice to give another opportunity for a play, especially considering that there have been fewer opportunities than in previous years due to the Studio no longer being available.
S. Gregson said it was important to get something in writing committing to technical capabilities. It was questioned how much information could be obtained from the QMU on this matter, and whether there should be a backup plan in case things go tits-up.
The idea of a one-day devised show was brought up, with perhaps a tech workshop or set-building going on at the same time. Booking the Food Factory on the same day would allow for lots of things to be happening at the same time, and would allow lots of people to get involved. A final decision is to be made later.

3. Social
Possibilities were explored for next month's STaG social. The possibility of another themed night was explored. L. Taylor proposed doing "like, a thing", such as going to the Art School or similar. The idea of a subcrawl like last year's was proposed for the 15th January, and this was generally agreed to be a good idea.

4. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
L. Taylor has been made board rep. The board rep pack has been sent to her and she has been in contact with the director. Auditions need to be organised soon, and scheduled for a time that doesn't clash with the subcrawl. From the experiences of auditioning for La Ronde, it was recommended that the auditions be booked for two rooms in the QMU, as the STaG room will not be big enough if the number auditioning is similar to La Ronde. Rights for the play need to be purchased soon, Lisa is on this also.

5. New Works
The New Works committee has met, consisting so far of four people. Finding judges is still a problem. A reminder will go in the newsletter about the deadline for submissions to New Works (January 9) to encourage proposals.

6. Publicity Officer
Three people have expressed an interest so far. A discussion was had on the best way to choose from the candidates who put themselves forward, and whether it was good to invite people to speak with the board. There was concern that it might be intimidating for candidates to come down and speak to 14 people, but it was hard to judge people just from emails and that it was good to exchange ideas. S. Gregson will email those interested inviting them to the next board meeting.

7. Plans for Next Semester
There is a Citizens Theatre workshop booked for the 26th of February. A large venue needs to be booked for this, for example the Debates Chamber. Publicity for this workshop needs to be better than for the one in October, as that one suffered from low attendance.
Some technical equipment will need to be purchased in time for New Works. So far a dimmer rack has been bought by L. Taylor, although it has not yet been tested. A brief discussion of the dimmer rack's technical specifications and capabilities was had by A. Rutherford and L. Taylor, while C. Felstead explained to the rest of the board what a dimmer rack is.

8. Community Theatre
J. May will consider some exciting ideas for community theatre things to do next semester.

9. Any Other Business
A re-evaluation of the roles of board members was briefly considered, to be further explored next semester.
T. Pennock reminded everybody to give him money for the board trip.
Somebody or other brought up the idea of a lighting workshop. This could take place in the James Arnott Theatre, although the lighting grid would be a somewhat different experience to the usual experience of lighting in STaG, and the number of participants would have to be very limited. The studio in the theatre studies building was also considered as a potential venue, although the James Arnott Theatre was considered "more interesting".

10. Christmas
S. Gregson wished everyone a merry Christmas. T. Pennock had objections to this proposal and a vote was called, with 4 in favour and 3 opposed. The motion was passed in favour of a Merry Christmas.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Minutes 6th December 2010

2010-12-18T09:31:00.001-08:00

Monday 6th December 2010

In attendance: S. Gregson, S. MacDonald, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, E. Burckhardt, L. Monkman, D. Keenan, A.Rutherford

Apologies: H. Allan, L. Taylor, F. Bird, T. Eaton, J. May

Also in attendance: C. Mcleod, S. Peacock, A. Cordier, and representatives of W. Burns

Agenda
1. Mainstage Next Semester
2. Social/New Works
3. QMU Meeting
4. STaG Nights
5. AOB

1. Mainstage
Four plays were proposed: Hamlet proposed by Callum Mcleod, One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Next proposed by William Burns, The Caucasian Chalk Circle proposed by Sophie Peacock, and Lord of the Flies proposed by Antoine Cordier. A very long discussion was had amongst the board. Many biscuits were eaten and many people had to leave due to La Ronde. Finally the decision was made that One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest would be the next mainstage slot. Feedback will be sent to those who proposed by S. MacDonald.

2. Social/New Works
Due to low attendance due to poor weather and La Ronde, a number of items up for discussion have been postponed until next week's board meeting. the La Ronde postmortem/reflection will be next week also.

3. QMU Meeting
A meeting about prices and technical support with the QMU could not be arranged last week. We will try again this week. The difference in price with what we are paying has been confirmed with the Cecilians.

4. STaG Nights
T. Pennock announced that STaG Nights is currently at a profit of £800. However only one of the plays in STaG Nights have been in contact about reimbursements, and there is only a week or so left for people to claim back money. S. MacDonald will send an email out to the directors of the plays reminding them.

5. Any Other Business
No other business. And no Doritos either, because Debs ate them all.

Minutes 29th November 2010

2010-11-30T13:54:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 29th November 2010
In attendance: F. Bird, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt,
Apologies: S. Gregson, J. May
Agenda
1. Reflection on STaG Nights
2. Found Spaces
3. T--Shirts
4. Christmas Social
5. La Ronde Fundraiser
6. La Ronde Update
7. New Works Update
8. Other Business/ Board To Do List

1. Reflection on STaG Nights
S. Gregson passed on his congratulations to the team and everyone involved in the show. However he noted it was regrettable the tech team were so overworked and wondered if it was possible to avoid this in future. C. Felstead said it was much better with two people doing tech each night rather than one. S. MacDonald was praised for her efforts with publicity. It was said it was a good atmosphere and the shows all worked well. The only issue was that some of them were very quiet but a suggestion to remedy this was to provide projection workshops through STaG. Stereo were happy to work with STaG however it was noted that communication with the venue needs to be improved in future and things need to be written down for reference in the future. A problem however was the noise from the bar during plays and the security guards being annoyed with the transportation of drinks from one venue to the other. The role of the floor-manager was called into question as it is often unclear about what the role consists of and it should be made clearer.
The film and the comedy was not as popular as the plays, this could be because of the awkward time of day it was on as many people had lectures, furthermore because the location was in the city centre it is important to consider the fact people may not be able to get there. The ticket prices were said to be good however the programmes did not sell so well. More publicity needs to be done and the idea of a publicity committee was discussed.
The involvement of first years needs to be boosted if possible as it seemed as though some were unaware they could propose as well as audition.

2. Found Spaces
S. Gregson will be writing the blurb for this to go in the newsletter and on the website. It is important to stress the fact it is not the same as the Mainstage and that the piece can be interactive. It will be performed after New Works and the Mainstage so around late March onwards.

3. T-Shirts
The t-shirts have been printed and will be on sale at the social. The image appears quite dark but S. Gregson thinks they look good anyway.

4. Christmas Social.
The committee has sorted food and drink, it has been decided 20p will be charged for pizza etc and an entry fee will not be charged. There will be a meeting at 1pm on Friday 3rd to decorate the STaG room before the social.

5. La Ronde Fundraiser
8 people came to the fundraiser and we raised £46.82, which is a good amount. The low attendance could have been due to the late advertisement of it and the £3 entry fee.

6. La Ronde Update
The QMU general manager has said we are not allowed to use the lighting bar and although we can get in from 9am we aren’t allowed to touch any equipment until 11am. C. Felstead is angry as she wasn’t told this in the original meeting. The venue will not be supplying any help with how to use the lighting or technical equipment. L. Taylor had a meeting with the tech man at the QMU but he wasn’t particularly helpful. She has decided to hire technical equipment at a cost of £80 in order to have good tech for the show and not use anything of the QM’s. The general manager will get back in touch regarding whether we are able to get money back from the QM because of this inconvenience. We have also been informed the Cecilian society only pay £265 for the weekend including tech support whereas we have paid £1200 without tech support. When we have confirmed this, the board will meet with the QMU to discuss this as it seems unfair considering both societies are fully affiliated. Other than this, the rehearsals are going well and the set will be being built on Wednesday 1st December. The publicity of the show needs to be pushed more so people know about it. F. Bird is making programmes for the show.
7. New Works Update
This will be advertised in the newsletter again so that more proposals may be received. A committee will be formed before Christmas and a doodle will be made to check the availability of the people interested. A similar meeting for those proposing will be set up with a specific time. D. Hahn is waiting for the venue to reply so dates can be confirmed. We are still looking for possible judges.
8. Other Business/ Board To Do List
The board needs to pay for their place on the trip as soon as possible.
Secret Santa presents need to be bought by Thursday.
A dish for the Christmas meal needs to have been made for Thursday as well.
A. Kane has resigned from the board, a replacement will be advertised for in the weekly email.
Dimmer lights will be bought from EBay for £250 for 6 channels.

Minutes 22nd November 2010

2010-11-25T08:51:00.001-08:00

Stag Board Meeting Minutes Monday 22nd November 2010

In attendance: Sam Gregson, Cerne Felstead, Deborah Sasha Hahn, Sarah MacDonald, Lisa Taylor, Emily Burckhardt, John May, Donal Keenen, Aidan Rutherford, Tom Pennock, Tom Eaton, Flora Bird, Lucy Monkman, Andrew Kane

Mainstage Play for next term
Meeting to decide upon main stage proposals proposed for Dec 6th. Play will be decided before Xmas.
Hamlet and One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest proposed so far.
Ramshorn can offer stage for the week of the 7th March and has been provisionally booked. £2,100 for the whole week.

La Ronde

Need to start publicising immediately, time running out. Posters should be ready to print by Friday and distribution should begin on Monday.

Fundraising ideas: Pub quiz? Cake Sale? Games? Twister? Acoustic music to raise profile and make it more of an event?

Fundraising event proposed for next Friday, 26th November.

Capacity of 100 decided for the QMU. Can remove seats if attendance is significantly lower.

Christmas Social

Stag t-shirts should be made in time for Xmas Social.
Ideas for the social: xmas music, pass the parcel, revelry.

New Works Festival

Because venue is free we’ve decided to invest in some new tech both for the New Works and for future use. More research is required first however.

Will be advertised as taking place at Buff Club because everyone us familiar with name and location.

Will take place Tuesday to Friday 15th – 18th February.

Judges still to be decided.

Studio Slot for Next Semester

Because we’re lacking a studio, perhaps the event can be themed as Crazy Spaces or such, and people can suggest new and interesting spaces in which theatre can take place.

Should it take place after the mainstage play during exams, like Cleansed last year?
An email will be sent out next week to ask for proposals for this slot, and will continue to be sent out well into the new year.

Executive Board Meeting

Move it to later in second semester so as to become a post-mortem of the year. Drawing on board members’ experiences, thus making any changes to the constitution more informed.

Stag Night

Post-mortem and discussion next week.

Charles Kennedy

Will make an enquiry over G12 closure. Will also see about increasing the £800 Stag Production Fund.

Minutes 15th November 2010

2010-11-18T09:12:00.001-08:00

STaG Board Minutes 15th November 2010
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, D. Hahn, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, E. Burckhardt, J. May
Apologies: F. Bird, A. Kane, L. Taylor, C. Felstead, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford
Agenda
1. STaG Nights Update
2. La Ronde Update
3. New Works
4. G12/Subcity
5. Improv. Tea Time
6. AGM
7. Other Business

1. STaG Nights Update
Looking good so far. Subcity did a piece on STaG Nights which was good as it raised the profile of the shows.

2. La Ronde Update
There has not been a budget meeting yet however one should be taking place after the meeting. J. May needs to work out his budget before he can spend any money on set or props etc. There is also a publicity meeting planned as soon as A. Kane lets J. May know his availability. Hopefully the show will have a preview at New Theatre in Jim’s Bar on the 29th November. Set needs to be organised as soon as possible.

3. New Talent
D. Hahn feels The Butterfly and the Pig would be a good venue, it would be free to hire and is mostly available as well as being flexible on when people can come in to set up tech/rehearse etc. However there is not a lot of lighting in the space so it was suggested that buying a lighting desk would be a good investment (and would cost around £700).
It was suggested that cheaper tickets could be sold if people were willing to stand on the balcony over the main seating area. The stage size will be dependant on the number of seats put out in the venue as there is a capacity of about 50.
D. Hahn spoke to Liz Lochhead regarding the possibility of her being a judge for the performances. This could be a good thing as it means her name would raise the profile of the event especially for the winning play which will go to the Fringe. However, she said she was only willing to do it if there were 2 plays on each night, which means the festival will only run for 2 days rather than the usual 4 days. S. Gregson raised the idea that this would cause ticket prices to be raised which would affect the turnout. T. Pennock and E. Burckhardt discussed the difficulties of doing tech for 2 shows on one night as there will be lighting differences and set issues too.
It is best to portray the plays as being finished rather than a first draft so the judges responses are not affected.
It was widely agreed that judges should represent various different areas of theatre so that all different types of theatre can be truly appreciated and judged.
The board will agree on judges at a later date.

4. G12/Subcity
K. Nesbitt, S. Gregson and H. Allan are meeting to discuss the closure of the G12 and the implications it has had for STaG for a documentary to be aired on Subcity radio. T. Pennock and S. Gregson will also be attending the rector’s surgery in order to see what else can be done.

5. Improv Tea Time
This will take place on the 24th November between 5 and 7pm. A facebook event will be created in order to raise the profile of it.

6. AGM
This will be moved to next semester and the time it will happen annually should be put in the constitution in order to avoid confusion. It was said that the AGM should be a reflection of the past year in order to better STaG. This could overlap with the board election so the new board are aware of the rules set for them.
7. Other Business
T. Pennock and T. Eaton spoke to C. McCleod regarding his experiences with New Talent. C. McCleod enjoyed his experiences but felt there wasn’t much publicity. The point was raised he has upset several people in his cast and it was stated that as he was a representative of STaG he needs to address this issue.
Tramway was discussed as a possible venue and E. Burckhardt will look into this.
The youth hostel has been booked so the board needs to give their money to T. Eaton as soon as possible.
D. Hahn asked the board to keep an eye out for possible judges for the New Works festival.

Minutes 8th November 2010

2010-11-11T08:41:00.001-08:00

Mon 8th Nov.
ITEM 1 STaG Nights Update.
Fundraiser was successful and raised £103.84
STaG Nights is next week.
We will be having a stall at cheesy pop on friday, and meet on wednesday from 11-3 to flyer.

ITEM 2 La Ronde
Its going well.
Some concerns about the amount of space being used in rehearsal, compared to the ammoun of space there ill actually be onstage.
Good social bonding amongst the cast.

ITEM 3 New Works (I struggles to make notes on this as I was doing the talking....
deadline for proposals is set as Sunday 9th January at 5p.m.
Debs and Cerne are meeting buttefly and pig man tomorrow.
Debs is meeting Liz Lochhead on Sunday, who is apparently well on it, and is terrified (didn't mention this at the meeting as I only found out today, but thought ya'll might want updates, also emailed list man...)
We will aim to have 5 judges, but 4 or 3 is ok too.

ITEM 4 Improv Tea Time
It was on Friday and only one person came, which was sad.
But its OK, because its going in the newsletter again, though we havn't set a date for the next one yet.

ITEM 5 Social
Mon 8th will be the last weekly social (incidentally, only 1 person came)
After this we will have a Christmas party social in the STaG room on Dec 3rd
Next semester, socials will be monthly, and themed, The President is excited already.
One possible theme is medieval.

Minutes 1st November 2010

2010-11-02T04:54:00.000-07:00

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan, T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, J. May
Apologies: F. Bird, A. Kane
Agenda
1. New Talent Post-Mortem
2. STaG Nights Update
3. La Ronde Update
4. T-Shirts
5. SRC
6. Social
7. Mainstage
8. Other Business

1. New Talent Post-Mortem
E. Burckhardt felt this year had been more successful than last year as it seemed like more of an event which encouraged people to come. However, D. Hahn was unsure about having two of the same play because it decreases the element of competition which is usually apparent in New Talent. The cast feedback has all been very positive and they enjoyed the whole experience. L. Monkman liked the format but suggested that perhaps the current board should try to organise New Talent for the new board so there is less pressure on them as there is such a small timescale to sort everything out. However, L. Taylor pointed out that over summer there is a lot of work to be done on the Fringe and so this may not be possible for the old board. Yet it was pointed out that having more communication between the old and new boards would help to increase the smoothness with which it is operated. E. Burckhardt said that it should be the new board’s job however as it is their first real performance to put on however maybe there should be more overlapping board meetings between the old and new board to make sure that any queries or problems can be resolved.
C. Felstead stressed the importance of choosing a director that is known to STaG so that we know they are approachable and easy to work with. A New Talent pack will be made to help the future boards.
It was suggested that in future different plays should be chosen so that there are more parts available because of large numbers of auditionees. Those in the chorus may have felt slightly less included because of the lack of larger roles. However, it isn’t just the part size that matters as STaG is trying to promote a good social experience too.
The auditioning process needs to be rethought as the directors felt the board auditioning didn’t help too much as it is difficult to judge parts based solely on workshops (or conversations). Perhaps the panel should be made up of the directors and an impartial board member. Some suggested that perhaps having an audition/interview process was not the best way to decide on parts and as a result felt upset and ridiculed.
Feedback will be given to C. Mcleod in the form of a meeting between him, T. Pennock and T. Eaton who will represent the board and their discussion.

2. STaG Nights Update
STaG Nights promotion at Initial Itch today. The flyers and posters have been printed and the board have been asked to distribute as many as they can. The launch party is this Thursday in the STaG room from 12-12.

3. La Ronde Update
J. May feels the process is going well. Rehearsals are taking place Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. The tech meeting has been postponed. Set is a major concern at the moment, J. May is hoping to speak to the man who did the set for An Acre and Change but there are also other options. C. Felstead suggested J. May may want to take on a dramaturge but both J. May and L. Taylor feel he is focused and does not require one.

4. T-Shirts
The screen printer has arrived and C. Felstead and D. Hahn will go to buy t-shirts and get it set up on Wednesday.

5. SRC
Ongoing process…

6. Social
Nobody turned up last week, we will discuss the best course of action to encourage people to come.
7. Mainstage
We have so far received one proposal for the first mainstage slot of next year. An advert for proposals will be put in the newsletter to encourage people to propose. The deadline for proposals will be the 5th December and a proposal meeting will be held on 6th December.

8. Other Business
-Improv tea-time will start on Friday 5th November at 5pm in the STaG room.

Minutes 25th October 2010

2010-10-27T04:36:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Minutes 25th October 2010
In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, A. Kane, F. Bird, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, A. Rutherford, D. Keenan
Apologies: T. Eaton, L. Taylor, E. Burckhardt, J. May
Agenda
1. Snack Rota
2. Social Rota
3. Workshop
4. SRC Affiliation
5. La Ronde Update
6. STaG Nights Update
7. Board Trip
8. Improv Tea-Time
9. Other Business

1. Snack Rota

Check the minutes email for more details. Thanks to those who have brought food so far!

2. Social Rota

It was decided we should see how popular the socials are and then decide from that how often they should occur. It was suggested we should make the socials into more of an event – fortnightly or monthly. A. Kane suggested this would make it more eventful and we could start the alternate socials next semester. C. Felstead agreed that we should keep socials every week until next semester when we can decide on their frequency depending on how popular they are.

3. Workshop

6 people signed up but only 5 actually came. This is probably because we didn’t advertise the workshop in time. It was suggested a ‘how many tickets left counter’ could be added to the booking form on the website.
T. Pennock said the workshop was good and had “a lot of running” although there was not much acting involved, it was mainly exercises to make people work better together.
The next workshop needs to be confirmed (February 26th) and advertising should start as soon as possible.

4. SRC Affiliation

Matric numbers need to be obtained from the membership. H. Allan and L. Monkman will be getting them from those who have not supplied theirs yet.

5. La Ronde Update

The QMU has said the performance needs to take place on the stage which is possible but may need some technical adjustments. C. Felstead is worried in case people fall off the stage…
It has been suggested more rehearsals need to be organised in order to get the rehearsal process speeded up a bit. C. Felstead will discuss this as well as the set and tech adjustments with J. May. The Tech man from the QMU will email C. Felstead with the floor and rigging plans.

6. STaG Nights Update
The poster has been sent off to the printers and will be picked up this week. A review is going in Qmunicate this week and hopefully something will be going in The Guardian soon as well.
The launch party will take place on the 4th November, from 12-12 in the STaG room. This will be put in the email and also on the website. The mature students need to be told about the party and the bar needs to be stocked. A. Rutherford will supply a projector for the films.
Only one budget plan has been received so far, S. MacDonald will reply with her thoughts.
7. Board Trip
Complete the doodle!
D. Hahn suggested a picnic would be a fun thing to do on the trip.
A Christmas meal at someone’s flat was also suggested. D. Hahn offered to host it. Everyone will bring a dish and we will do Secret Santa. *much excitement* It will take place on the 2nd December as long as everyone is free.

8. Improv Tea-Time
A meeting will take place on Wednesday 27th October to finalise the plans. The first Improv Tea-Time will take place the week after. This will be put on the website.
9. Other Business
The Bedlam cheque has finally arrived giving STaG another £1,035.50, however this means STaG has made a loss. T. Pennock will write up a report on this for next week.
D. Hahn and C. Felstead are looking for a location for New Works, the places they have seen so far have been Liquid Ship (nice but wrong space), Captains Rest (closed when they went), The Holt Bar (free but a tiny stage). They are still looking for places so if anybody knows of/finds anywhere let them know!
1st year reps could be given some more responsibilities eg fundraising. The board should think about this for next week.
Don’t forget the STaG room clean up on Friday 29th October at 1pm!

Minutes 18th October 2010

2010-10-22T04:29:00.000-07:00

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, A. Kane, F. Bird, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, E. Burckhardt, T. Eaton

Apologies: L. Taylor

Also in attendance: J. May, A. Haddow

Agenda

Community Theatre Rep
1^st Year Reps
Room Booking/Masterclass
New Talent Post Mortem
SRC Affiliation
Improv Tea Time
Board Trip
STaG Nights Update
Other Business

1. Community Theatre Rep

S. Gregson told J. May and A. Haddow the basic information about the board and the position. Past ideas from community reps were also discussed to let the applicants know what other things have been done and to give them some ideas.
A. Haddow: used to be a nurse so used to working with children – would like to put more emphasis on the writing side of theatre perhaps doing some writing workshops in local schools etc.
J. May: done lots of volunteer work with children. Talked about the Save the Children grant where money is given to set up a project for disadvantaged children to take part in – could be an idea for STaG to get involved with.

The board discussed the possiblitity of forming another sub-committee to help with the position as, as E. Burckhardt stressed the importance of the role.
J. May was chosen as the new community theatre rep.

2. 1^st Year Board Rep

C. Felstead read out the applications and after a heated debate D. Keenan and A. Rutherford were chosen.

3. Room Booking/Masterclass

E. Burckhardt will book the GUU from 1-5pm on Sunday 24^th October – preferably the debates chamber or the dining hall but if it isn’t available then the QMU will be booked. The class will be advertised on the website and in the newsletter. Participants (a maximum of 8) will have to pay £5 towards the total cost, even if they do not turn up. First come first served booking basis using the new booking system T. Pennock has set up.

4. New Talent Post-Mortem

S. Gregson congratulated the directors and the date for the post-mortem will be 1^st November.

5. SRC Affiliation

H. Allan is in the process of completing the forms. L. Monkman is getting the membership money from those who have not yet paid.

6. Improv Tea-Time
T. Pennock is attempting to finalise a meeting with those interested. He is planning on beginning next week and it will be advertised on the website.

7. Board Trip Away
T. Eaton suggested Stirling or Loch Lomond as both have youth hostels. He will make a Doodle to check board availability. More information will be emailed to the board.

8. STaG Nights Update
Plays have been chosen and auditions have been this week. Publicity is under way using Facebook and posters are to be printed by Monday. The launch night/fundraiser will take place all day on November 4^th. This will appear in the newsletter and also on the website. Floor managers have been sorted. The booking system can be used to reserve tickets – information will be put on the posters.

9. Other Business
F. Bird has completed the social rota and will email it to the board. The new place for socials will be chosen by the board.
D. Hahn is looking for a venue for New Works as soon as possible so that judges can be picked. The space doesn’t have to be a theatre so if the board knows of anywhere then feel free to suggest it!
E. Burckhardt is organising a STaG room clean up on the 29^th October. This will be advertised in the email and the website.
H. Allan is making a list of board members to give to the security man so they can have access to the STaG room key.

Minutes 4th October 2010

2010-10-12T13:52:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Minutes 4^th October 2010

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, A. Kane, F. Bird, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, E. Burckhardt, T. Eaton

Also in attendance: J. May

Agenda

La Ronde Venue
1.1. Other Venues
Newsletter
1^st Year Reps/ Community Theatre Rep
Socials
Publicity
Screen-Printer
Memberisation
New Talent Update
Other Business

1. La Ronde Venue

After much discussion during which J. May brought up the various factors he wanted in his venue (i.e. A deep set stage area in order for his set ideas to work) C. Felstead and J. May decided to go and view the Debates Chamber at the GUU and Qudos at the QMU. C. Felstead provisionally booked the QMU for the 4^th, 5^th and 6^th of December at a cost of £1200. However, the venue will seat about 500 people per night.

1.1. Other Venues

Nautical College – city centre
Landsdowne – S. Gregson said that the venue was not ideal for STaG’s current needs
Pearce Institute – Govan - £7 per hour, very close to the Subway station.
Art School
RSAMD
Scottish Youth Theatre – 3 rooms but potentially very expensive
Old Bookshop in the John MacIntyre – large room

2. Newsletter

A policy about how to deal with other theatre companies advertising through STaG was devised. It was decided that these sorts of adverts (e.g. calls for actors etc) should not be put in Newsflashes but can go in the weekly Newsletter.

3. 1^st Year Reps/ Community Theatre Rep.

The board decided they will choose both positions by a vote within the board itself. The 2 applicants for Community Theatre will be invited to a board meeting to talk with the board. The 1^st year positions will be re-advertised in the weekly Newsletter and also mentioned at the New Talent launch party in Coopers.

4. Socials

F. Bird will send an email asking for board availability.

5. Publicity

A. Kane is contacting Subcity to advertise the production of Alice In Wonderland. He will also email the Glasgow Guardian, Qmunicate and the GUU magazine. E. Burckhardt will ask her flatmates to mention the performances of Alice on their show too.

6. Screen-Printer
L. Taylor has put the money in the PayPal account. S. Gregson will order the printer.

7. Memberisation
The cast and crew of both productions of Alice need to be made members. This could be done at the launch night in Coopers on the 7^th October.

8. New Talent Nights Update
D. Hahn’s main worry is the high drop out rate of the cast (especially by those in the chorus) Some have switched to do tech whereas others have said they did not realise what a huge commitment it was going to be. However, she did mention that now the whole show has been blocked and everything is going well. L. Monkman updated the board on the progress of C. McCleod’s rehearsals and it was mentioned that he may have thrown someone out of the cast. She is worried people are not having as much fun or social interaction as in D. Hahn and E. Burckhardt’s group.

9. Other Business
H. Allan will email the SRC again about the affiliation process.
S. MacDonald suggested there needs to be another push for proposals for STaG Nights in order to get more freshers interested.
There will be an advert for New Talent Nights in the newsletter and on the website.
T. Pennock will email C. McCleod to ask whether he wants programmes done and to let him know he needs to organise this. It was suggested that 200 should be printed (100 for each show).
T. Eaton volunteered to be the box office personnel and will deal with email bookings. There will also be tickets on sale at the door.
T. Pennock will be making a decision about who will help with Improv Tea-Time this week.

Don’t forget, no board meeting on Monday!

Minutes: 27th September 2010

2010-09-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, A. Kane, F. Bird, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, E. Burckhardt, T. Eaton
Also in attendance: S. Gwynn
Agenda
An Acre and Change Post-Mortem
The Studio
STaG Nights
T-Shirts
Improv Tea Time
Socials
New Talent
La Ronde
Other Business
1. An Acre and Change Post-Mortem
As S. Gwynn was invited to the board meeting he was invited to speak about his Fringe experience. He felt the show on whole went well (although we do not have the figures for ticket sales as yet). Despite not having great reviews the audience numbers didn’t seem to be greatly impacted. There was good feedback from the audience which seemed to be other than students typically middle-aged (a target fringe audience). The publicity and the flyers went down well however it was suggested that more flyers may be needed (changing from 10,000 to 15,000 perhaps?) The cast and crew were very enthusiastic and helped out with flyering and promoting the show. However, it was suggested that perhaps rehearsals need to be started earlier than May as the cast and crew seemed quite apathetic and with the summer break looming it was difficult to organize a proper rehearsal schedule, yet it was noted that the delay could have been due to the lack of a finished script. D. Hahn suggested that there should be more of an emphasis on the fact that the chosen play will be going to the Fringe as the cast seemed unprepared for the challenge when it came. It was suggested that STaG should have a larger role with promoting the show and publicising the fact that STaG was linked with it. It could also be useful to have more people from the board involved in the running of the show. S. Gwynn felt that perhaps it was the wrong play for the Fringe as it was difficult to get people interested, something which the board could have helped more with. The lack of technical support was also addressed and it was suggested that there needs to be a larger drive to get people involved in tech for next year. He did however, feel that the Fringe pack was helpful but may need some updating. The venue (The Bedlam Theatre) was according to S. Gwynn, unhelpful and didn’t supply appropriate information when it was needed. There was definitely a lack of communication between the theatre and the cast and crew. Similarly L. Taylor was unaware of certain aspects of the theatre’s technical requirements for example the fact that the lights would be moved throughout the day so they may not have been in the correct position for the show the following day. Thus it was questioned whether a new venue should be found for the production next year which still provides the same amount of space for the play. In future there needs to be more fundraising and it should be started earlier as there wasn’t quite enough done this year. It was stressed however, that this is not the sole responsibility of the board.
2. The Studio
Studio slots for the New Works Festival have been decided as follows: Performances on the 9th, 11th, 16th and 18th with tech/dress rehearsals on the 8th, 10th, 15th and 17th.
3. STaG Nights
S. MacDonald discussed various progressions made within the separate committee for STaG nights (STaG Knights). There are 12 in the committee so far however others have expressed interest. They will be meeting on Thursdays and a schedule has been devised for the next two months. There will be a tech meeting this week. Cut! Filmmaking society has been contacted to discuss them taking part in the daytime events.
4. T-Shirts
L. Taylor is going to buy the screen-printing machine.
5. Improv. Tea Time
So far there have been 2 replies to the email. Both the people interested have been relatively inexperienced however. It will be put out on the Newsletter again.
6. Socials
Initial Itch social information will be on the website and in the Newsletter.The board needs to email F. Bird their availability for the social so a rota can be devised.
7. New Talent Nights
T. Pennock needs to contact the directors as part of his role as board rep. It was suggested he should attend some rehearsals to check on progress. The launch night has been confirmed as the 7th October in Coopers. The fundraiser has been cancelled. If rehearsal space is needed it is best to contact Lucy at the GUU as she has been helpful to STaG in the past. L. Taylor suggested using the Catholic Chaplaincy as a rehearsal space as it is quite large.Publicity for the shows will be sorted through Rob Jones’s Subcity radio show.
8. La Ronde
Publicity for La Ronde in the Guardian, Qmunicate, Subcity – if they will put something out anyway!Callbacks are on Tuesday 28th September. After a good turn out of about 70 it has been narrowed down to 12. The cast will be chosen from this 12.
9. Other Business
Community Theatre position and 1st year board reps will be advertised in the email. More posters for Alice should be put up, perhaps asking the cast if they can put up some posters in halls. T. Eaton will look into a board trip away.An executive meeting has been planned for Sunday 10th October at 11am.S. Gregson and D. Hahn are meeting Minty on Wednesday 29th September to discuss the James Arnott/G12 theatre space.

Minutes 20th September 2010

2010-09-23T16:11:00.000-07:00

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, A. Kane, F. Bird, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, S. MacDonald, E. Burckhardt,

Apologies: T. Eaton

Agenda

New Talent
STaG Nights
G12/ ‘James Arnott Lecture Theatre’
New Writing/ New Works
T-Shirts
Socials
Fresher’s Week Post-mortem
Other Business

1. New Talent

Auditions have been done and it has ended up with 44 people in each play, which works out as 39 new members each! We decided that old members should be given smaller parts in order to give the new members a better induction into STaG. Lists of the cast have been given out to both directors. It was suggested that to equal out parts bigger roles like that of Alice should be split up. We also discussed the possibility of including other talents eg. Music.
L. Taylor and C. Felstead are organising the production teams of people with varying levels of ability in them. S. Gregson stressed the importance of booking rooms for rehearsals now to avoid disappointment and also suggested the use of Doodle to show cast availability.
We discussed the idea of a launch party in Coopers on the 1^st October so the two casts can meet and be social. We also discussed a fundraiser in the STaG room on the 6^th October. The budget for each show is £150, although it is important to keep all receipts and claim anything back within 28 days! A. Kane is doing the publicity and making it pretty.

2. STaG Nights

S. MacDonald applied and got the Young Scot fund which will cover venue hire and publicity (approx. £541). She will also apply for the Initiative Grant to help cover more expenses. We discussed asking the SRC for a grant too (details for which can be found in the email H. Allan sent round) A meeting will be held on Thursday 23^rd September at 6pm in the STaG room to form a committee.
A social will be targeted specifically towards proposing for STaG Nights on the 27^th September, L. Monkman will send an email round about this. So far there has been 1 proposal and the deadline is on the 8^th October at 5pm. C. Felstead will email Reuben to ask about making posters for the shows and invite him to the meeting on Thursday.
Stereo offered the space during the day between 1 and 3 so the idea of having some daytime productions was discussed. We thought it may be better to have just films on during the day. This will only be done on Thursday and Friday so that Wednesday can be a ‘trial run’ for setting up.

3. G12

So far the deal seems to be that as long as STaG pays for janitor cover then we are able to use the space. However it is unclear whether there is still a production fund that we are able to make use of.

4. New Writing/Works Festival

The studio has been confirmed for the evenings it will be on however, the space is needed during the daytime so all the lighting etc will need to be taken down. D. Hahn suggested more focus on competition is needed this year to increase excitement. E. Burckhardt suggested looking at the pricing for the G12 space too so we can increase the number of people allowed in the space as currently the numbers for the studio are unknown.

5. T-Shirts

This will be circulated in the email again as there was some interest/queries about people ordering some. A screen printer will be bought from EBay for £10ish in A3 size.

6. Socials

Pubcrawl on the 18^th October?
More theatre trips suggested for social opportunites.

7. Fresher’s Week Post-Mortem

WELL DONE STaG!
Debate about whether or not we should have another show as some say it helps to raise STaG’s profile and interest in us whilst others have said it is a waste of time and can be a big disaster. More workshops next year as there was a high turnout, maybe we could make them more interactive? STaG Bear will be moved to a Fresher’s fair day to make him more useful. BBQ went well and we should think about doing this again next year.

8. Other Business

1^st Year reps should be elected soon
Improv tea-time – an email will be sent out to see who is interested.

Tom E and Emily it’s your turn to feed us next week!

Minutes 12th September 2010

2010-09-23T16:09:00.001-07:00

In attendance: S. Gregson, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, D. Hahn, A. Kane, F. Bird, L. Taylor, L. Monkman,

Apologies: T. Eaton, S. MacDonald, E. Burckhardt,

Agenda (of sorts)

Workshop
STaG Bear & Flyering
Laptops/Stall
Socials
Auditions

1. Workshop Drama

Eventually it was decided that L. Monkman and L. Taylor will be hosting the auditions workshop at 11am until 12pm. D. Hahn will come when she can. L. Monkman will send out a Newsflash correcting the workshop times on the flyer. The times are now 11-12 (auditions) and 1-2 (improv.) S. Gregson is going to put the information on the website along with some advertising for Arches Live. This should also be in the Newsflash.

2. STaG Bear (yay) & Flyering

STaG Bear has a rota – D. Hahn 10-12, L. Taylor 12-2, A. Kane 2-4. STaG bear will be silent this year… (Wrote this down, not sure why)

The board will be between the QMU and the GUU flyering and generally being lovely and theatrical. We are meeting TOMORROW at 9.45am in the STaG room to sort out posters and flyering.

3. Fresher’s Stall

T. Pennock will be bringing his laptop for use at the stall along with a float sometime before 10am on Tuesday. The flyers will be reprinted (using C. Felstead’s specially cropped map) and handed out during the week. There should be 2 laptops, one for pictures and one for typing up new members as they come and join!

4. Socials

Socials will remain on a Monday at about 7.30pm…ish. The first 3 will be in the STaG room and the 4^th will be some sort of finding-a-new-place-for-a-social crawl.

5. Auditions

Auditions for Alice in Wonderland will be on Sunday. A monologue is needed for both girls and boys. D. Hahn and C. Felstead had some ideas about what they could be. Extra audition time may be needed for those who cannot make the audition on Sunday.

Keep your fingers crossed for good weather!

Minutes 10th September 2010

2010-09-23T16:07:00.000-07:00

Meeting, 2p.m. Friday 10th September

Present: Sam Gregson, Cerne Felstead, Deborah Hahn, Tom Pennock, Lucy Monkman, Flora Bird and Andrew Kane

Apologies from everyone else I'm sure.

ITEM 1: New Talent Nights

Due to Alice Blundell's resignation from the STaG board, a new board rep was needed for new talent nights, Tom Pennock volunteered for this position with enthusiasm and two thumbs up.
Poster for new talent nights is to be printed tomorrow.

ITEM 2: La Ronda

Still trying to find a venue - we hear from the G12 around the 20th Sept.

ITEM 3: New Works

It has been decided provisionally to have the new works festival in the studio instead of the Ramshorn theatre.
There was some debate as to whether to run each of the plays for two nights due to reduced capacity.
The Right Honourable D.S. Hahn will email Minty Donald with reguards to booking the studio at the beginning of February.

ITEM 4: Studio Slots.

It was decided by the members present to enquire about the possibiltly of studio slots at the end of Oct/beginning of Nov and the end of Nov/beginning of Dec, Deborah Hahn is taking action.

ITEM 5: Freshers week

We will meet on sunday at 2p.m. to further discuss Freshers week plans. After this meeting there will be an even cooler meeting to discuss the "night game".

Minutes 7th June 2010

2010-07-11T05:36:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Minutes 7^th June 2010

Taken by Sarah MacDonald

In attendance: S. Gregson, S. MacDonald, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, A. Kane, F. Bird

Apologies: D. Hahn, T. Eaton, H. Allan, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, A. Blundell, E. Burckhardt,

Agenda

Fringe
Fresher’s Week
STaG Nights
Lights
New Talent Nights
Workshops
G12
AOB

1. Fringe

Ed could not make it so arranged to meet (for those who can make) tomorrow (Tuesday) in the STaG Room 2-3pm. Simon will not be at that meeting.

2. Fresher’s Week

We spoke about the need to get a good location for the stall at this year’s Fresher’s week. F. Bird will contact the SRC to request one. At this stall we want pictures of the board and of shows that have gone on (with captions) to illustrate STaG’s successful history and to give the fresher’s an idea what they are getting themselves into! We will sell t-shirts at this stall.

It was brought to the board’s attention that the Hillhead Bookclub had excellent publicity before its launch with the simple flyer design. We thought that perhaps we could have orange posters with just the antlers at the beginning of the week and later on introduce more information to these original posters. This was an idea Hilary Sloan had for STaG Nights 2009 and could work really well as a teaser.

T-Shirts were discussed and it was suggested that they need to be ‘cooler’. Orange is a big fat YES (as recommended by Fergus Andrew) but Sam suggests we need something a little more interesting and that we would actually like to wear outwith STaG events (perhaps antlers crawling arond the shirt?) It was suggested that we need to check out companies off and online to check this out in terms of price, quality and suitability.

We chatted about putting posters around the art school to entice them into STaG but this must not divert attention from the University of Glasgow in which we must put most of our energy into.

We need a new sign to put in front of the STaG room (a plastic one like the G12 shows?) C. Felstead is going to look into this.

We decided that a social with a pub quiz will take place on Wedneday 15^th September and a BBQ in Kelvingrove park will take place on Friday the 17^thwith auditions being on the Sunday (19^th).

We also would like to help Fresher’s move into their halls during the week as this is a good way of getting first years to get to know us. We need a lot of help with this though.

STaG Bear is, of course, a must!

We would like to hold an improv workshop and S.Gregson is going to ask Magic Ben if he would like to host one (as he had plenty of experience and led a very successful one last year) for £20 and a drink from the bar.

We decided to clear out the STaG room on Wed 8^th and Thurs 9^th of September – be there!

3. STaG Nights

Stereo has been booked!!! And now S.MacDonald will send an email out to StaGgers encouraging them to think about proposing for the festival. She has already sent an email out to a lot of companies around the Uk urging them to propose. S.MacDonald is, before she goes away, applying to Ideas Tap and Young Scot for funding. Storage and vans will be sorted in the next term.

4. Lights

£200, and we have decided to buy them now! And store at one of the techies house until a more suitable home can be found for them. Additionally we have found heavy duty wires in the store room beside the STaG room that we can use for shows – yes.

5. New Talent Nights

So far we have three directors interested, which is encouraging but sending out an email to see if we can encourage more and if we can find any designers. Next Tuesday 15^th the board will have an email discussion to decide upon the two directors.

6. Workshops

M.Westbrook is interested in offering a one off workshop for STaG but S.Gregson will continue the search.

7. G12

Lee will let us know mid-summer what is happening.

8. AOB.

T. Pennock asked if Improv Teatime would continue. There was a lot of support for it from the board at the meeting and it was suggested to keep it up, every month with a new person leading it every week. B.Watson will be contact about this with his ideas about how it can be continued/a pack can be made about improv games etc...

Happy Summer all!!!

Minutes: 31st May 2010

2010-06-01T15:52:00.001-07:00

STaG Board Minutes 31^st May 2010

Taken by Sarah MacDonald

In attendance: S. Gregson, S. MacDonald, T. Pennock, C. Felstead, E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, A. Blundell.

Apologies:D. Hahn, T. Eaton, H. Allan, L. Taylor, L. Monkman, A. Kane

Agenda

Fringe
STaG Nights
New Talent
Website
Main Stage Slot
Venues
The Ball
AOB

1. Fringe

S.Gwynn, director of the Fringe play, An Acre and Change was in attendance. The cast had a read-through yesterday and rehearsals are going well with Siobhan McCulloch now as co-director and having a positive impact upon the show.

It was discussed that Ed needs to start applying for grants, A. Blundell has emailed him frequently with contact made today via text. The board has agreed to look up the deadlines for these grants in preparation for next weeks’ meeting in which Ed should be attending.

The show still needs an actress to play the part of Martha so an advert is being sent out via STaG email to advertise this.

At the STaG Ball £90 was made for an Acre and Change which is a good start to the fundraising campaign. It was suggested at the board meeting that the £1,000 target should be divided up between the cast.

Accommodation is still uncertain but Simon will be in contact with Edward to ensure that this is done soon.

A.Blundell stressed the importance of the Fringe pack.

A publicity officer is needed and it was decided at the meeting that the group must use the STaG publicity format for their posters but can do what they like for the flyer. Simon already has some ideas about the image.

2. STaG Nights

S.Gregson explained that we may have the G12 next semester but has emailed the theatre studies staff to begin negotiations. S.MacDonald has met up with the venue manager of Stereo who has three venues that we could use. The main space has a capacity of 100 seated and has a screen to project films upon, a stage and a lighting board and good sound facilities. The other two spaces S.MacDonald intends to use as a more experimental/intimate space and a music/arts room. The board seemed excited by the prospect of doing something a little different this year for STaG Nights. The venue should cost less than £500 for the full three days. In the next week S.MacDonald needs to check out transport costs and that we can have two days before the festival to set up and do tech and dresses. S.MacDonald would like the technical managers to visit Stereo with her. The G12 Production fund has been applied for with two budgets attached (one G12 permitting the other for Stereo.) We should hear back in two weeks time.

3. New Talent

The 11^th and 12^th of October at the GUU has been booked by C.Felstead for the nights. It is free! But the £50 cost of the bar is currently being reviewed and we are yet to hear back from the GUU. We are hoping that this cost remains (or goes down!).

It was decided that the society will put on two productions of Alice in Wonderland as it offers an exciting scope for interpretation and design. We to advertise for 2 head directors, 2 head designers and 2 head stage managers which will lead the production. E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, A. Blundell have volunteered to run the New Talent Nights.

4. Website

R.Jones is currently creating the website for us and S.Gregson encourages all to take a look and see it progress at www.studenttheatreatglasgow.com.

5. Main Stage

It was decided that La Ronde will be our next mainstage play. A directors pack will now be sent to the director.

6. Venues.

E. Burckhardt is going to send round a list of all the venues she has researched. It was suggested that before we make any decisions we must go and visit these theatres. The search continues as it becomes ever more important that STaG find new places to put on plays following the imminent closure of the G12 Theatre.

7. The Ball

We made £115! Yes.

8. AOB.

No, although the flashy new calendar was applauded enthusiastically. And the store cupboard oood and awwd at.

Minutes: 24th May 2010

2010-05-31T03:57:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Meeting

24^h May 2010

In attendance: S. Gregson, D. Hahn, T. Pennock, H. Allan, C. Felstead, L. Monkman, A. Kane, E. Burckhardt, F. Bird, T. Eaton, A. Blundell.

Apologies: S. MacDonald, L. Taylor

Agenda

Survey
Opinion Poll
New Talent Nights
Venues
Dates
STaG Nights
Fringe
Other Business

1. Survey

A winner was chosen at random (student number: 0801574), this will be going out in the email and a personal email will be sent to the winning address. It was suggested that the winner should come to a board meeting in order to collect their prize.

2. Opinion Poll

The majority of respondents to the opinion poll said that they would prefer two large scale and four small-scale performances. Others suggested two large scale and between three and six small-scale performances.

3. New Talent Nights

The board decided to narrow down the choices to three different plays: Alice In Wonderland, Animal Farm and Peer Gynt. All three plays were seen as having large enough casts to include all those who audition. However it was seen as a possible problem that people may not want to be animals if Animal Farm were to be performed. A play with a large cast is essential for the form of the festival. Alice in Wonderland would have a predominately female cast which would be good as most of the people who audition tend to be female. It was also suggested that the after-party would need more publicity as last year people were unaware it was going on. This would increase the awareness of STaG and also the profile of the social events. Auditions are to be held at the end of Fresher’s Week (18^th and 19^th September) and then the performance will be around three weeks from then (10^th 11^th October). A. Blundell reminded the board of the importance of taking photographs of the auditionees as then it is easier to remember who is who!

4. Venues

The board decided it was important to check venue availability and prices in order to see if it would be possible to have some bookings. The G12 space is closing and it seemed to the board that any bookings we may already have would be honoured but made difficult by the lack of technical support. The New Works and Main Stage slots could be held at The Ramshorn, D. Hahn will look into this as soon as possible in order to secure some provisional bookings. It was suggested that the GUU could be a good place for a second main stage slot. C. Felstead will look into booking the GUU for the New Talent Nights as it would be free Sunday to Thursday thus making sure STaG is able to make profit. However the issues of lighting and the QMU’s better tech support were raised.

5. Dates

The New Talent dates were decided as being the 10^th-11^th October. A main stage slot should be scheduled for the beginning to middle of November. STaG Nights could be in the first week of December so as not to clash with exams. S. MacDonald will need to decide upon a venue for the New Talent Festival. S. Gregson will email The Ramshorn to ask about availability.

6. STaG Nights

The possibility of using Stereo as a venue was discussed however various problems were apparent such as it only has a capacity of fifty including cast and crew. This was seen as being too small for such a popular festival. However it was suggested that a smaller venue may mean the festival can go on for longer although it was debatable as to whether the venue will be available for up to a week. S. Gregson will speak to S. MacDonald about her plans for the venue. The G12 space was considered however as there are problems due to the closure of the space this may not be possible.

7. Fringe

A. Blundell has given Ed and Simon an ultimatum with regards to fundraising (and the lack of it!) Simon is said to have relinquished responsibility. L. Taylor and H. Allan have previously said they are willing to help out at The Fringe however it is important that Ed and Simon try to find people themselves. The board decided to invite them to the proposal meeting on Saturday 29^th to talk to them about the serious situation we are in. A. Blundell will email them to invite. STaG will hold a fundraiser at the ball in the form of a raffle in order to start the proceedings and give them some help.

8. Other Business

There will be a STaG clean up on Sunday 30^th May, people are advised to collect any belongings before 12pm on Saturday 29^th May. A discussion on how to promote STaG will be held in the next meeting. There is to be a proposal meeting on Saturday 29^th at 5.30pm and board meetings will continue to run for the next two weeks.

Minutes: 17th May 2010

2010-05-31T03:56:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Meeting

17^h May 2010

In attendance: H. Sloan, S. Gregson, D. Hahn, R. Jones, S. MacDonald, T. Pennock, P. Mannion, H. Allan, T. Mackay, C. Felstead, L. Taylor, K. Nesbitt, L. Monkman, S. Bradley, A. Kane, E. Burckhardt, L. Fenwick, F. Andrew, F. Bird, A. Ralston, T. Eaton.

Apologies: A. Blundell, J. Dyer

Agenda

Devised Slot
Board Availability
Survey
Opinion Poll
New Talent Nights
Main Stage Slot
Website
Cheques
Fringe
Fresher’s Week
Other Business

1. Devised Slot

Operators were needed for all dates, Thursday will be covered by D. Hahn, Friday by C. Felstead and Saturday by L. Taylor. Doors for the nights are to be K. Nesbitt and T. Pennock on Thursday, K. Nesbitt and T. Mackay on Friday and S. Gregson and L. Monkman on Saturday. It is said to be progressing well and flyering around campus is hoped to increase awareness. Laura Jones is to be added to the list of thanks in the programme.

2. Board Availability

The board are hoping to meet three more times before the Summer break. These dates will be the 24^th May, 31^st May and 7^th June. If you cannot make the meeting please let someone know.

3. Survey

Information about the survey will be going in the email again and the closing date is next week. After this, the £10 prize will be awarded.

4. Opinion Poll

S. Gregson suggested putting out an opinion poll regarding STaG’s slots and people’s opinions of them. H. Sloan suggested people should to propose before the summer if possible to avoid things getting hectic when it is difficult to keep in touch.

5. New Talent Nights

It was suggested that the format of selecting people and plays for this should be changed. H. Sloan has looked into various spaces that could be used and stated that better organisation is needed before the Summer break. P. Mannion suggested an open discussion could be a useful tool to reassess the goals of this event. In the past new talent has increased membership of STaG but it was said that people need to be more involved in order to continue to increase. If little plays are to be produced then the quality of the plays needs to be improved. It could be beneficial to provide Freshers with feedback forms afterwards to find out how successful it was. An announcement regarding New Talent will be out soon. Some people suggested the format could be based on that of the Cecilian society. Others said auditions should be held for a prewritten play in order to increase interest. T. Mackay suggested that more technical positions should be advertised in order to encourage people to join STaG even if they are not as interested in acting.

It was suggested that two versions of the same play could be staged which is hoped will increase socialisation between members and also improve the numbers of people coming to see the performances. However, it was noted it could be boring for someone to see the same play twice. This would add an element of competition to the proceedings. S. Gregson suggested making the plays more open to all and providing a feedback form for auditionees. This could include tick boxes where they can state if they are interested in other things, for example directing. It was decided a well known play should be chosen as this should increase interest. Possible play-writes were Shakespeare, Wilde and Brecht.

Everyone promised to think about what play could be chosen… (This should also appear in the email.)

6. Main Stage Slot

Proposals for the slot will be advertised in the email. S. Gregson suggested the proposals should be acquired first and then the venue and date will be agreed upon possible venues are The Ramshorn Theatre and the G12 space. A provisional booking may be made for The Ramshorn. Proposal forms will need to be sent out this week. The 29^th May was decided as the date where proposals will be heard by the board. People can propose virtually if they are unable to make the meeting.

7. Website

R. Jones has begun to look for a new way of hosting the STaG website using the domain name “stagstage.org.uk”. A new host site is estimated to cost around £50 and should be a better way of collecting all the various blogs and pages associated with STaG, for example the minutes blog and a calendar of forthcoming events. The board all voted in favour of a new website. S. Gregson, R. Jones, A. Kane and T. Pennock will work on this project together and will meet on the 28^th May at 4.30pm at R. Jones’s house.

8. Cheques and Financial Issues

If anyone has any cheques to cash then they should be cashed as soon as possible. This will also be put on the Facebook group and included in the email.

9. Fringe

No meeting with Simon or Ed has been confirmed yet however F. Bird will hopefully arrange one by the end of the week. Rehearsals are due to start soon as an availability email has been sent out to the cast. The board agreed that an ultimatum needs to be set for Simon and Ed in order to force them to begin fundraising and communicating more with the board otherwise STaG may not be able to support them at the Fringe. F. Bird will email Ed to encourage him to begin a fundraising plan.

10. Fresher’s Week

This is a basic discussion and a more detailed one will take place next week. S. Gregson asked the previous board members for ideas about what to do this year. It was agreed that more STaG publicity is needed as both T. Eaton and H. Allan stated they had not seen much of STaG during Fresher’s week. This could be done through more team members getting involved, STaG t-shirts, more flyers, a showcase night, a workshop. It was also said that a map to the STaG room should be included on all leaflets distributed. H. Sloan also suggested there needed to be more information about what STaG is, included in the events list.

11. Other Business

H. Sloan offered her congratulations to all those involved with Cleansed. The takings are thought to be around £180. However, a contract from the GUU has not been received despite being told one would be emailed. Approximately 80 people came to the performance over the 2 days.

T. Mackay will be meeting with Tony after the exam period. (Not sure where this was intended to go so… here it is!)

Please meet with your Board counterpart this week if you have not done so already! There will be an executive changeover meeting on 25^th May at 1pm.

Thanks to S. Gregson, who brought biscuits and F. Andrew who brought doughnuts. Snack rota is back on so feel free to bring something to the next meeting.

Minutes: 10th May 2010

2010-05-17T05:52:00.000-07:00

STaG Board Meeting

10^th May 2010

In attendance: H. Sloan, S. Gregson, A. Blundell, D. Hahn, R. Jones, S. MacDonald, T. Pennock, P. Mannion, H. Allan, T. Mackay, C. Felstead, L. Taylor, K. Nesbitt, L. Monkman, S. Bradley, A. Kane, J. Dyer, E. Burckhardt, L. Fenwick, F. Andrew, F. Bird, A. Ralston, T. Eaton.

H. Sloan welcomed the new Board to their first meeting, and the group shared their aspirations for the coming academic year.

Agenda

1. Financial Summary

2. Devised Slot

3. Cleansed

4. Venues

5. Main-stage Proposals

6. STaG Ball

7. Fringe

8. Lights

9. AOB

1. Financial Summary

S. Gregson stated that STaG is a good financial situation compared with last year. There is roughly £4500 in the account, but the Fringe is coming up which traditionally makes a big loss for the society.

2. Devised Slot

The BBQ and Speed-dating fundraiser went well on Sunday 9^th May, generating about £74. The tech rehearsal will be on the Monday and the dress run on the Tuesday; the start time for the performances will be 7pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (w/b 17^th May). A. Blundell has checked with the G12 to confirm the dates and there will be ushers and janitors present on all performance nights. The capacity for the performance is 35, not including cast, but it should be noted that this is only for this performance and it would be worth checking for different shows.

In terms of holding events and doing get-outs in the STaG Room, the MSA should be notified 24 hrs before, so not to offend.

3. Cleansed

F. Andrew said that he is speaking to the QMU about obtaining drapes for the production. P. Mannion will assist by supplying some of them *cough*. The following people offered to be the box office for the performance nights:

Friday – E. Bruckhardt & H. Sloan

Saturday – T. Eaton & C. Felstead

An advertisement for a stagehand will be added to the newsletter this week. The Cleansed posters will be distributed around campus this week. A. Blundell will be running the box office and all people will be notified that they must book by 5pm on Friday. People will also be informed that they must collect their tickets 15 mins before the performance.

4. Venues for Next Year

Due to the uncertainty of venues for the next academic year, the Board will assist the new board in finding new places. It is very likely that the G12 will close in the next few months.. With the hope of obtaining the lights, church halls and other non-traditional theatre venues could be an option.

The following venues were suggested to be looked into:

· Ramshorn Theatre, Ingram St – J. Dyer has been in touch with Susan at the Ramshorn and they really want to encourage bookings.

· Britannia Panopticon, Trongate – STaG had been given a slot in this venue before, there are a lot of major drawbacks and conditions.

· Tramway, Albert Drive – have applied before, but could keep applying

· Citizens Theatre, Gorbals St– Circle Studio and Stalls Studio

· Tron Theatre, Trongate – the Changing House

· Cottiers Theatre, Hyndland St – not yet complete, but maybe something for the future

· Lansdowne Church, Great Western Rd

· Adelaide's, Bath St – 470-seat theatre, £40/hr

· GUST Studio, Southpark Ave – might have a problem with the public being inside

· SRC – asking the SRC for help in finding a space

· Renfield St Stephens, Bath St – church hall

· Stereo, Renfield Lane – gig venue underneath the bar

· Oran Mor, Byres Rd – maybe?

· RSAMD, Renfield St – Chandler Studio, New Athenaeum Theatre – can only be used outwith term-time.

· Langside College, Prospecthill Road

· Langside Hall, Langside Ave

· Pearce Institute, Govan Road

· Woodside Hall, Glenfarg St

· The Flying Duck, Renfield St

· The Piping Centre, Otago St

· Photographic Studios, SWG3

· The Halt 2, Woodlands Road

· Scottish Youth Theatre, Brunswick St

· Trongate 103, Trongate

· 13^th Note, King St

· Mono, King's Court

5. Main-stage Proposals

H. Sloan reminded the incoming board that they need to decide when to hold their next proposals for the first main-stage of the year. With the uncertainty of venues, this is at the Board's discretion. It is unlikely that the University will honour the bookings we have in place at the G12 for November, December 2010 and May 2011.

6. STaG Ball

There is half/less-than-half of a ceilidh band confirmed for the Ball. A. Blundell, J. Dyer and L. Taylor will be assisting in the search for musicians/a cheap ceilidh band. The Budget is still not formalised, in light of the band situation. The tickets for the Ball will be £15, and the theme is formal black tie. There will be nibbles.

7. Fringe

There was a Fringe Committee meeting last week. A. Blundell is keeping in touch with Simon and Ed. There needs to be much fundraising, and much organisation. A. Blundell has given them a systematic list of tasks they need to do. It is important that StaG and the production team share the responsibility of the Fringe. The Board and membership need to be more supportive of the production and work with the Fringe committee – and will hopefully be given advice from P. Mannion, S. MacDonald and Ben Watson, who have all taken shows to the Fringe in previous years. L. Taylor will assist in training (potentially leading?) the production team. A meeting between Ed and Simon and the Fringe Committee will be rearranged.

8. Lights

T. Mackay said that she was still working on having the lights valued with the help of Tony and the Internet. She is looking into dimmer packs/alpha packs to accompany the lights.

9. AOB

F. Andrew with H. Sloan will look into obtaining a contract for Cleansed.

Please meet with your Board counterpart this week!