| Rehearsals |
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The rehearsal period is the make or break of any production. Not only is it the time for getting to know the play, but also when the creative team should start to gel. This may be the first time some (or all) of the actors have met each other. Probably the director is the only person who has previously met the whole team, which may also include the designer, stage manager, lighting technician, musical director, writer and so on. It is part of the director's responsibilities to ensure that working relationships are positive - and fun! It can be useful to play a few drama games before or even during rehearsals - in fact some great ideas can come out of games and improvisation. It's good to encourage a sense of play during this time so that actors are able to confidently contribute ideas. The more the actors can bring to the production, the more they will feel 'ownership' of the play when they are performing it. This can reap dividends in their commitment to the performance - especially if it is a long run. An experienced director will be able to allow this process to take place, encouraging ideas to flourish, then shaping them into a cohesive whole.
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