Questions and Answers
What is a key aspect to discuss with the director before the first rehearsal?
What is a common component of most first rehearsals?
How should the director's preferences for the rehearsal structure be approached?
What should be prioritized when communicating with the actors regarding the rehearsal schedule?
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What might the director want to do during the first rehearsal aside from a read through?
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Why is making a good first impression during the first rehearsal important?
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How should the assistant director respond to the director's rehearsal demands?
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What element is crucial for the assistant director to clarify with the director regarding equipment?
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What items should be set out at each actor's station before their arrival?
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What is one of the primary roles of the director at the beginning of rehearsal?
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What should the stage manager confirm about the rehearsal schedule?
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What typically varies between directors regarding the stage manager's involvement during a read through?
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What action should the stage manager take to track the duration of the first read through?
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During the rehearsal, what is important for the costume designer to do?
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Which types of stage directions are generally not read by the stage manager according to most directors?
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What is a practical reason for the director and stage manager to coordinate before the first read through?
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What does the symbol 'x' represent in the blocking notation?
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Which symbol represents 'sit' in the blocking notation?
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What should you use for making blocking notations?
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How does the notation indicate the first move on any page?
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Which of the following is not a symbol used in the described blocking notation?
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What does the curved arrow in the notation signify?
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What does the ampersand symbol (&) represent in the initials notation?
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If the first move on a page is character Ben crossing stage right and sitting, how would you denote this?
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What is the primary responsibility of the stage manager at the end of the meeting?
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Why is it important for the stage manager to ensure everyone understood the meeting discussions?
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How should the stage manager decide on symbols for characters?
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What should a stage manager do if there are multiple characters with names starting with the same letter?
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What is essential to do before adjourning the meeting?
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What aspect of blocking can vary between stage managers?
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What might a stage manager do to differentiate between three characters with names starting with 'S'?
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What should be included at the beginning of the script for reference?
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What does the notation 'b' signify in the movement description?
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How can a cross be indicated if it is made downstage of a chair?
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What notation should be added if a new move occurs between two existing moves?
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What is indicated by an up arrow above the chair symbol?
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What does the notation 'abx' signify when describing an actor's movement?
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Why is it important to keep a key for symbols used in blocking?
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How do you know which character is moving in the notation?
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What does the 'light slash off' notation imply in the blocking?
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Study Notes
Pre-Rehearsal Preparation
- Collaborate with the director to identify any production-specific needs, such as additional props or costume changes not in the script.
- Discuss the structure of the first rehearsal, including elements like read-throughs, design presentations, and research time.
- Confirm any special equipment the director may require, such as a CD player.
Communication with Actors
- Inform actors of the rehearsal schedule promptly and courteously, establishing yourself as the primary point of contact.
- Prepare actors for the expectations and format of the rehearsal to create a positive first impression and foster a good working relationship.
First Rehearsal Structure
- The first rehearsal typically includes a read-through, although some directors may opt for research activities or improvisation during the initial days.
- Utilize the first rehearsal to solidify team dynamics as actors meet each other and the stage manager.
Actor's Station Setup
- At each actor's station, organize essential materials: performance calendar, contact sheet, contact card, and sharpened pencil for ease of access.
Director and Designer Interaction
- Allow the director ample time to discuss the production choices and artistic vision with the entire team.
- Designers should present their designs, explaining the rationale behind their choices to the cast.
Rehearsal Schedule Distribution
- Clarify how actors will receive the rehearsal schedule, ensuring communication methods are established for posting or calling.
Stage Directions and Read-Throughs
- Discuss with the director about reading stage directions during the read-through; preferences vary with some directors wanting all and others preferring just key directions.
- Use a stopwatch to track time, as initial read-throughs often reflect close performance time.
Meeting Documentation
- Compile and summarize all decisions, questions, and requests from production meetings into production meeting notes to distribute to attendees.
- Ensure the next meeting's date is established before concluding each meeting.
Blocking Notation Techniques
- Develop a personalized blocking notation system, combining various methods learned from others with original ideas.
- Use symbols for each character, typically the first letter of their name, adapting as necessary for similar initials.
- Create a key for symbols in the script for clarity in notation.
Specific Symbols for Blocking
- Implement unique symbols for actions and objects; for example:
- "x" for crossing the stage, "s" with a tail for sit, "r" for rise, chair and table symbols for furniture.
- Document blocking notations side-by-side with the text to maintain consistency and context of character movements.
Flexibility in Blocking
- Recognize that blocking is not static; adjustments can and should be made as needed during rehearsals.
- Create a method to indicate supplemental movements within your existing notation system (e.g., using "a1" for an added move).
Detailed Movement Notations
- Structure notations to reflect character movements in tandem with script references, ensuring clarity and ease of adjustments.
- Use directional arrows to denote upstage/downstage movements in relation to furniture placements.
Continual Development of Symbols
- Keep a dynamic key for symbols and movements, allowing for easy updates as new directions are introduced during rehearsals.
- Tailor the blocking process based on the evolving dynamics of the rehearsal, adapting symbols and notation techniques to suit the production's needs.
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Description
This quiz explores the key considerations for working with a director on a play. You'll discuss special needs for the production, rehearsal structuring, and integrating design elements into your preparation. Understanding these dynamics is essential for a successful theatrical experience.