The team behind the scenes: International Night
A glimpse into the production team of International Night
Photo by Aryan Shetty
Alexandra Gray, Sports Editor & Liana Sabnani, Opinions Editor
If you were to ask any student at Northview High School what the most popular Thursday night of the year is, their answer be International Night. Northview's unique approach to this annual tradition draws a large portion of the community in. Between the Taste of Cultures and the show itself, it is evident how much time and effort goes into making this extraordinary night happen. However, it is rare that a member of the audience gets a look at just how much work the technical crew puts in. The behind-the-scenes team of International Night has a unique set of roles and responsibilities that truly bring the show to life.
For many members of the tech crew, working behind the scenes has given them an opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of theater without being on stage. Assistant Stage Manager Madie Skinner especially felt the benefits of being both a viewer and a crew member.
"I love watching people dance and sing and act, and being able to just sit there and have a job but at the same time, you have a show going on, and you can watch it. It's really fun," Skinner said.
The technical crew plays a crucial role in ensuring that International Night runs smoothly, handling everything from lighting and sound to special effects. Unfortunately, severe weather conditions forced the postponement of International Night from Jan. 22 to Jan. 30, presenting an unexpected challenge. While this may seem like a minor setback, many crew members had to drop out due to other commitments, such as rehearsals for various other performances and sports practices. This left the remaining crew struggling to find more help, reassign roles, and ensure that all the technical aspects would run smoothly regardless.
"It's a learning curve, [with] people being on time and being where they need to be," Skinner said. "I'm also learning so much more in this production because I haven't had too much of a big role in other productions."
Their ability to adjust to these last-minute changes is what made the show run smoother. The tech crew proves that being part of their community isn’t just about making sure the microphones work--, it’s about teamwork, problem-solving, and handling pressure to create the unforgettable experience that defines International Night. Senior Arianna Valentino has been a witness to the bonds that form between the tech crew.
"It's a great community, behind the scenes people aren't as hyperactive as those on stage. It's like a family," Valentino said.
The technical team is vital in delivering the celebration of culture, creativity, and community together on International Night. The crew remained dedicated to making sure the show went off without issues, even when faced with unexpected challenges. Every precisely timed light cue and flawless transition is a testament to their hard work, even though it isn't always completely seen. After being a part of this coveted Northview tradition, the team gets to look back on their experience as a whole. Senior Jonah Chadwin reflected on his time and efforts and recognized the fond memories he gained from his time being a member of the tech crew.
"You get an experience that will stick with you for longer than you may think," Chadwin said.
