It's that time of year again! Tech week. Can't live with it, can't live without it. As someone who's been doing costumes for the last 3+ years here, it's my time to shine. But, it is still super long and can make everyone sick (and tired) of the show. It's also that time of year to get sick and and with everyone all on each other, the plague is bound to come to a cast and crew near you. So, here's some tips from my Cast/Crew of Company at FDU to enrich your Tech experience, so it doesn't become a dreaded weekend, but a fun one!

1. Caffeine will be your best friend.

For someone who drinks coffee probably more than water, I have to up the dosage. For those who don't really drink caffeinated drinks- now's the time to get cracking!! "Drink alllll the tea you can find" -Claudia Noto

2. "Bring a pillow, for both sleeping and crying into" -Max Tootleman

After long hours of sitting in a dark theater, you'll either get sleepy or cranky. Why not prepare for both?

3. "Stay healthy. Eat Healthy, dinner healthy". - Max Tootleman

We all know the caf on weekend is going to be disappointing, so plan ahead! Or, know exactly your plan of action of where to go for your breaks for lunch and dinner. I always suggest Panera and Chipotle, you always need comfort food (neither are healthy choices but you catch my drift).

4. Relax after each day is over.

Every day of tech week is a triumph, you deserve it. I suggest candles, they calm me, and fall scents are to die for.

5. Bring headphones.

Absolutely still pay attention but also keep in mind the wonders of Netflix or Music during downtime.

6. Bring a book!

If staring at a screen for too long hurts your eyes like me- bring a book! It will probably be dark for a while in the House, but nothing the flashlight on your phone can't fix!

7. Sleep.

Any second you can, you get to hang out with everyone all day, being up until 2am with them night after night during tech will just make an unfocused group of theater kids who need a nap.

8. Set Alarms!

Don't be that guy that didn't set their alarm and now everyone's waiting on you. I always set a couple, if possible on more than one device. I set one on my Fitbit and a couple on my phone.

9. Pack a bag.

You can never have too much stuff, only too little. Whether you have one too many snacks, that's much better than none. Bring cards in there, some deodorant, money for the vending machines, etc. "Less is more" doesn't apply here in my book.

10. Respect your team

If you don't work together, your show will be in nine different directions. Take it from someone who's had first hand experience of this. Especially since this is the first time that tech and cast are really ALL together, you need to respect each other and understand that everyone has a right to be there to get it together.

And when it's over... Celebrate!!!