I have a very intimate relationship with my set when I’m directing a show. Very, very intimate and important. The set is something that starts to take shape in my mind long before the cast have appeared. As I read
Me and my set
Seeing Things in the USA!
Sorry about the repetition, but this week sees SEEING THINGS by Rob Hockley is being performed by Wellington High School, Florida in a One Act Festival on Saturday 9th November. GOOD LUCK WELLINGTON – we hope you WIN! For those
Offbeat Directing Ideas 8: The Comfort Zone
Ah .. the comfort zone. The place where some actors will stay unless pressed to break out. It’s that safe place where you walk in a way that feels ok, talk in your own voice or one you’re familiar with,
Offbeat Directing Ideas 7d: Infrastructure!
Infra-what? For a show? Always makes me think of bridges and telephone lines – which is exactly right if you’re thinking of a society, a town or a community – the underlying systems that allow it to function.
Offbeat Directing Ideas 7c: Your Design Team
‘What team?’ I hear you say. Quite so. Chances are it’s just you and your best friend. But let’s suppose for the sake of this post that you do have access to people who will design for you – or
Offbeat Directing Ideas 7b: Early Rehearsals and Cunning Plans
You have a cast, crew and a whole host of people waiting to hear what it is you want and need in order to get the production underway (hopefully). Time to unleash the cunning plan – which consists of what
Offbeat Directing Ideas 7a: Who Does What?
Ok, now the work can really start. I love rehearsals! There is nothing more satisfying than a dynamic, creative, interactive rehearsal that leaves everyone feeling like they”re getting somewhere!
Offbeat Directing Ideas 6: The First Awkward Read Through
You’ve just survived the painful experience of casting the play and your chosen actors are assembled for the first read through. You would love it if they’ve actually read the play, thought about it and got to know their characters
The Noble Art of Observation and the Power of Silence
Listening and watching (in a positive way) are very underrated. In a previous ‘life’ I was a therapist (remedial massage mostly) and I spent many years teaching others how to assess the varying conditions of their clients.
Offbeat Directing Ideas 5: Trial by Audition!
Ok, hands up .. who likes auditions? No one? Well, there’s a surprise! I absolutely hate auditions. As director I always want to give everyone a part, preferably the part they want.