In episode 77, we're talking about our annual year-end show retreat, sharing our top takeaways, organization hacks, and some creative touches we add to make our year-end show is a fun and unique experience!
Annual Year-End Show Retreat Highlights
- Pre-Retreat Prep
- Review last season’s recap to set clear goals.
- Streamline props and sets; reduce and repurpose where possible.
- Pre-plan with team: collaborative playlists, light decor, idea sharing via Google Docs.
- Brainstorm preschool production ideas in advance with voice recordings.
- Setting the Creative Scene
- Retreat held in a decor-rich setting inspired by Oz and Wicked themes.
- Green decor, custom banners, themed books, and collectibles for an immersive environment.
- Key team member Beth joined for early insight into props, sets, and coordination for smoother season planning.
- Retreat Agenda
- Arrange costumes on poster boards for visual organization.
- Finalize show concepts, music, costume sizing, and themes.
- Develop massive planning spreadsheets, finalize dress rehearsal schedules, and outline communication materials for families.
- Compile visual boards for costume inspiration and show themes.
- Costume Planning
- Quicker costume selection process.
- Frustrations with character costumes addressed.
- Organized costumes with garment bags and tags.
- Finished the lookbook ahead of schedule.
- Fun Elements
- Listening to themed playlists.
- Candy bar, themed drinks, bell for costume choices.
- Oz-inspired “explosion” cake and charcuterie board.
- Top 3 Wins
- Dani: Detailed notes, organized props and sets, early hand-held prop orders.
- Becca: Completed lookbook early, streamlined decor, more organized with Beth’s support for team questions.
Pro Tip:
Consider planning a day or afternoon retreat if a full weekend isn’t possible.
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Related Episodes on Recital and Show Planning
- Planning YOUR Fun Big Show (+ Our Fave Recital Moments)!
- Fall Recital-A-Rama
- Make Recital Planning Fun
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