Often in the course of our work in the technical part of theatre we are put in a position of needing something to be done and having to negotiate with other powers…General Managers, Production Managers, Heads of various departments, Carpenters, Electricians, Prop Men.  I have found that when one is asking for something a little different from what is normally done often the first answer is “that’s impossible”.  I have developed a response: 

“Is that because of Physics or Bureaucracy?”

Example:

I have asked to move a drape to a pipe 3’ upstage of where it is now.  I’m told “it’s impossible”.

My question is Why?  Is it because there is a physical obstruction where that pipe is that would prevent the drape from, let’s say, flying out?? Or is it because someone upstairs in the office decided that the physical arrangements of the hang should not be changed for a visiting dance company?