Larry Watson (right) and George Carter share a hug at the Actor Boy Awards. Stage manager Watson was awarded for his years of work in technical theatre. - Ricardo Makyn / Staff Photographer THE 2003 International Theatre Institute Actor Boy Awards was dubbed 'Magical Moments, A Tribute to Technical Theatre'. In keeping with this Lauriston 'Larry' Watson was given a Special Award for Outstanding Achievement.
The 2003 Actor Boy Awards took place at the Little Theatre, Tom Redcam Drive, on Tuesday night.
HEAD MAN
A graduate of the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts, Watson has been the head man in black, leading the technical team with the Little Theatre Movement for the past 21 years. Working mainly as a stage manager, he has also worked on lighting design, set design and costume design.
Watson's award was presented by George Carter, with a citation read by Scarlet Behari. Rather than attempting to name the individuals he had worked with, Watson simply thanked the various teams he had worked with over the years.
"I know many of you will agree with me when I say it's about time," said the evening's host, Karl Williams, after Watson's very succinct acceptance speech. The laughter and applause which followed William's statement suggested the audience's assent.
Robin Baston, chairman of the planning committee for the awards, pointed to the same sentiment in his address found in the programme. Describing Watson as "a teacher by trade and a teacher by example", Baston said "I salute you sir."
DEMONSTRATION
The night's theme was also represented with a demonstration of the art of technical theatre, featuring Sheldon Shepherd, Sabrina McDonald and Lisa Dunkley. The segment showed how lighting, fog make-up and other effects can create explosions, crucifixions and hauntings on the stage.
"Magical moments are not just made by the actors, but by the people who shine the light in our faces so we can really shine," said Williams.
A special award of thanks was also presented to Michael Reckord, who has been a judge with the Actor Boy Awards for 12 years. Reckord noted that he had already received thanks through the good performances his time as judge has allowed him to see, without paying for them.
