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
