Saturday, March 26, 2011

Methodolody and the Ideal Process

As I work through a rehearsal process right now, and contemplate what I want to do in this industry...I started jotting down the "ideal process" for me. (This is not affiliated with my current show--I very much respect my Director.)

I'm hopeful I will eventually find opportunities to direct/choreograph, though they are not priorities right now....this is merely me delving into the future possibilities and composing my thoughts.

I remember in college, Karen Kessler made us define a methodology as actors. So here is my "defined" methodology as Director/Choreographer/Producer/who knows...


  • CASTING
    • Create well defined breakdowns
    • Get creative team and casting director on the same page
    • Hire passionate and grounded Actors
    • SEND MATERIAL SHORTLY AFTER CONTRACT
  • FIRST REHEARSAL
    • Host brief introductions from cast and creatives
    • Initiate Tablework 
      • Address the world of the play (conventions/realities/theatricalities)
      • Address the characters, environment, and relationships
      • Address questions 
      • DISCUSS as a company
  • MUSIC REHEARSALS
    • Trust the cast to get off book
    • Allow production team to gain momentum
    • Prepare blocking/choreography
  • READ/SING THROUGH
    • LISTEN (ALL)
      • Allow influence to direction/choreography
    • Answer questions
    • Prepare schedule
  • CHOREOGRAPHY/STAGING
    • Stagger calls and split rehearsals
    • Work (Director/Choreographer/Musical Director/Cast) together to synergize elements
  • RUN THE SHOW
    • Repeat, Notice, Solve, etc.
    • LISTEN (ALL)
    • Allow things to happen/change
  • DESIGNER RUN
    • Give the production team the show
    • Invite colleagues and mentors for additional feedback?
  • TECH
    • Remember what the "process" is like for everyone and encourage patience, respect and light-heartedness, while maintaining focus and productivity.
  • OPENING
    • Give the actors and stage manager the show
    • Thank everyone for their efforts
This is a blog....which is great. I can return to this, share it, get feedback, modify, etc.

The fact of the matter is that every show/experience is different and calls for a different approach. This methodology needs to be fluid and flexible...but I think it's always good to be prepared and specific, no? ;)

Wishing you all wellness and happiness,

Tony

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