Theatre is an extremely unique practice. Everything you learn in theatre has many applications to other things in life. For example, learning how to build sets teaches you the fundamentals of using power tools and the logistics if building pretty much anything. There are many other things like that, because as they say, theatre mirrors life.

Here are 5 things that many long, exhausting and yet wonderful hours spent in theatre have taught me!

1. Teamwork is the only way

A production team and cast and crew all must play for the same team during the preparation and run of a show. Everyone has to be communicating, because there are so many little things (and big things) that have to be done exactly right for the show to be pulled off! The stage manager is steering a many-membered ship, so there absolutely has to be communication between every member of the show so that everything flows in sequence. There is, however, tons of improvisation that happens backstage when things go wrong or something gets forgotten! No one sees the crew members silently scrambling backstage to make sure the actors get what they need and when, and that the show runs smoothly and without a hitch.

2. Hurry Up and Wait

Hurry up and wait is an expression I have heard many theatre people say. Basically, it's referring to backstage and how there's tons of activity and things to get done all at once very quickly, and then absolutely nothing for a time (usually during a scene).

3. Snacks are Necessary

Snacks are absolutely, 100% necessary in backstage work. Long, exhausting hours filled with the most energy-expending labor I have ever experienced is a definite call for snacks to at least replenish something! However, you better keep any food away from the costumes or the costume designer/manager will be your worst enemy!

4. Showtime Face

Showtime face is the resting bitch face of theatre. Everyone has their "game faces" on and it can be a little intimidating at times. However, everyone is just focused on getting the show to run smoothly, they often will say things quick and to the point and have a very serious "showtime face" on. Never take it personally! For everyone who has been working with the show from the beginning, and even some people who were added in for tech, this is their "baby." After the show ends, they go back to being the most pleasant people.

5. Everyone should do it

Everyone should do something backstage, at least once. It's a truly rewarding experience that very few understand and appreciate. Knowing all the hard work and long hours that go in to a production, and knowing what it takes to be involved in theatre will truly make it you love it so much more!