How do you set up for a Ballet?

[Eiwaz]

My wife is the director of a Ballet Company in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have done the video for the performances with a borrowed Canon GL2. The camera was set to auto and everything worked out great. I am no longer able to borrow that camcorder.

So I bought the HV20. Now the first show is coming up, The Nutcracker. I was wondering what I should do in order to get the best shot. I will be recording in 60i mode because of the fast action. I also got a DM-50 which I plan to set in shotgun mode to get the live sound.

I want to know how I should set up the camera?

I will be shooting about 60 feet from the stage (back of the theater) and will have to deal with many changing lighting conditions. Not all the lighting is that bright and I am worried about the grain, hence the question.

[veg]

How many performances can you shoot?
If only one, then shoot gently, starting with a W/S then zooming/panning/tilting SLOWLY!, with the music/action in time with the performance.
(Learn/Feel 'The Nutcracker' before you even go there. Suggest Youtube Nutcracker search)
Dont stop recording ! You'll need the uninterrupted audio!
AND......
set a separate audio recorder as belt and braces.
Then get a copy of the original performance music.
If you get the opportunity to shoot several performances then shoot one whole 'take' in a 'Locked Off' HIGH Wide Shot with the exposure locked to be correct at the brightest stage lighting scene. ( If the stage lighting gets dark after that, then it's meant to be dark... DW!).
Second, third, fourth performances (if you get the opportunity) shoot non-sync close ups. ie close ups of eyes, tips of toes, hands in the air, dress fabric swirling, lighting changes, audience reaction etc. (exposed as correctly as you can)

Good Luck!
veg

PS Dont forget to wear the correct shoes!