The Rehearsal Process

Follow the Rehearsal Process of Illinois State University's production of The Women of Lockerbie by Deborah Brevoort.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Designer Run/First night in the CPA

Tonight was a good night. The actors had their first real chance to explore the full show on the set in the CPA. It was amazing to see it all come to life! (I think there are photos that will be posted of the night)

I am always amazed how things change once we get onto the REAL set. We have been rehearsing on a flat, taped out version of the set, that while correct in scale and size is really hard to feel much of the size and scope of the actual set. We do not get to experience the height or depth of the space until we are really there. This requires some imagination and creativity (and lots of work on the part of the stage management to tape the set out to scale!) but we make it work. It is important to give the technical folks time to do their work and complete their jobs to make the set safe and beautiful for the show. The actors and I always REALLY want to get on the set as soon as we can but also REALLY want the set to be a lovely and well constructed as possible. This means using another room to work through much of our rehearsal process. It is a compromise that in the end always works well. The actors are smart an adaptable with their surroundings and the tech folks are able to take the time to do their jobs well.

Also another great meeting with the ENG 102 class today! So many great questions about the rehearsal process and the viewers guide. Looking forward to seeing some of you in rehearsals soon!

Best,
Emily Gill
Director, The Women of Lockerbie