When the cast meets, the writer should read through the script once for
the entire cast to clear up any questions there may be about meaning or
interpretation. Then it’s time for the writer to do the most important
part of a playwright’s job - let go and let it come to life as a
collaboration. (Although some writers like to do double duty and act or
direct as well. This is a fine idea, especially if turnout is low.)
The director should take the reigns and lead the cast through
subsequent readings. This is the time to gather ideas from the cast and discuss
possibilities for blocking, props, and costuming. Since time is of the
essence, it is important to keep stay as minimalist as possible.
Costume changes and elaborate sets are not generally feasible.
Actors then rehearse together, trying out different possibilities for
the script and making a special note of cues. This process works best
when interaction is welcomed. Everyone needs to stay loose and flexible
during rehearsal. It’s fun, after all.
Saturday Afternoon: Eat Lunch, Call Friends, and Memorize
Be sure to take a break. Memorization requires brain food and
motivation. So, have the actors eat some protein and call their friends to make
sure they will be coming. In fact, each actor should call someone they
respect to come to the show. This always raises the bar.
Saturday Night: Get Props, Set-up, and Break a Leg
When the blocking is set and the rehearsal have gotten tedious, it’s
time to break until show time. Actors and directors can leave to shower,
have dinner, get props, or see the kids play soccer.
Before everyone leaves, you, as the organizer, should get a title and
cast list from each director so you can make and run off programs. By
this time you should have an idea of what each show is about. It’s up to
you to decide in what order they should go. Try putting similar shows
near each other so the comedies don’t conflict with the dramas.
Also, make a full cast list including all actors and directors and put
them in alphabetical order. Get someone to work your box office. And,
if you’re really feeling ambitious, get cheap sodas and snacks to sell.
About an hour before the show, casts should reconvene, do their final
rehearsals, and prepare to break legs. You should prepare your curtain
speech that will tell the audience how the instant theater works.