Howdy,
I was invited to Clark to work on this play with students because my friend who teaches here saw the presentation at The Public LAB series in June. I realize now that our designers were so good, so good, that he didn't realize how hard the play is. By that I mean...where are you going to get 50 gardenias, and these sound cues, and wait...the clothes get chocolate on them every night, and she has to change clothes on stage? I mention all of this because our designers were so good that few people noticed all the detail in finding the right dress, the right nightgown, the right pair of boxers...all of it. Because working with students in a 'workshop' no one is specifically in charge of anything. So, the phrase I keep repeating is "Yes, the clothes are simple, but they have to be specific." You can substitute the word 'clothes' with any other that applies to the play.
I'm not complaining - just grateful for the efforts of others.
Also, I'm watching the specifics of the actors, and how lazer specific the internal life needs to be great in a play. Pushing Leah - the actress playing Ruthie to get specific when Bo is pushing her to tell him what she wants...In trying to get her to name the one thing that would make her happy...She named being able to 'successfully' consummate the marriage. And it took a while to get that answer, I didn't know it was the answer - I actually thought the answer was " I don't know" but wanted to push so she could feel the frustration of not knowing...but when that answer came out, it helped to clarify how she is listening. It also made the stakes and fears specific for her. And I realized, yes, when I don't know...there is always a specific tartget of need, want, or fear...and that specificness is what makes the behavior in acting exciting and engaging.
Scott's rewrite is great. It took the actors a couple of days to make it not jarring to my ear to hear something new. And now that have a sense of ownership of it...the change is very powerful. That Scott Hudson is a feckin' good writer.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Continuous Learning
Howdy,
What is great about taking a play back into development, and with new actors, is you hear it differently. Working with Leah and Dan at Clark - I've heard some of the levels of humor and friendship that need to be a little more present in the play. Also, I'm learning about the specifics of love, what is it exactly these two individuals get from the other - in just their relationship. Just by knowing and being with the other that they get from no other. Watching these two young actors discuss that with each other today really deepened how specific this relationship, well probably every relationship is, but specifically this one for the play - how their interactions inform their relationship to the world and the journey. (I'm leaving the word journey in the blog...it seems less specific than I want to be but for now - it stays.)
This play is wonderful to work on with students - because it works with what ever level of specificness you are capable of achieving in action and emotion. The deeper and more specific work you do the stronger the play. It can support you and you learn - and expand with the actor. Also, it forces you to keep learning and growing. I saw Jamie at the LAB party last night - and she said she still is stopped in the middle of doing something with an "Aha" moment about a moment in SWEET STORM.
those "Aha" moments make it a great play to work on with young actors.
Okay - I'm hoping to keep this blog up. I hope to learn more about the development process - if not of the play, maybe of actors and directors.
Goodnight,
Padraic
What is great about taking a play back into development, and with new actors, is you hear it differently. Working with Leah and Dan at Clark - I've heard some of the levels of humor and friendship that need to be a little more present in the play. Also, I'm learning about the specifics of love, what is it exactly these two individuals get from the other - in just their relationship. Just by knowing and being with the other that they get from no other. Watching these two young actors discuss that with each other today really deepened how specific this relationship, well probably every relationship is, but specifically this one for the play - how their interactions inform their relationship to the world and the journey. (I'm leaving the word journey in the blog...it seems less specific than I want to be but for now - it stays.)
This play is wonderful to work on with students - because it works with what ever level of specificness you are capable of achieving in action and emotion. The deeper and more specific work you do the stronger the play. It can support you and you learn - and expand with the actor. Also, it forces you to keep learning and growing. I saw Jamie at the LAB party last night - and she said she still is stopped in the middle of doing something with an "Aha" moment about a moment in SWEET STORM.
those "Aha" moments make it a great play to work on with young actors.
Okay - I'm hoping to keep this blog up. I hope to learn more about the development process - if not of the play, maybe of actors and directors.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Life after the Summer Winds
Howdy,
I am in LAByrinth's off speaking with Trevor, who began the idea of blogging for the Play Development Process of the Public LAB presentation of SWEET STORM, and we were talking about the value of the blog in all of our Development or Production Processes. And well - I'm a fan. I love sharing the process with you - whomever you are, because I think the process of creating a play is challenging and should never be done alone. And sharing my experience with you - makes me understand it better, and possibly for those of you venturing into your own process reading these postings will give you comfort in your process. And for the voyeur or fan who is just curious what's happening with this play...hey good to see you again.
Two things happening with Scott Hudson's SWEET STORM. The first is after seeing the play at the Public LAB in June Clark University invited me up to work on the play with their students. We are doing a presentation with the similar level of tech as the Public LAB. It is more of a workshop for the actors. Who, thus far, are great. Leah and Dan are playing Ruthie and Bo. They are meeting every challenge and working as hard as they can. And they love the play. I also have the fortune of a brilliant post grad stage manager - Kate who is holding the tree house together as I commute to Worcester, MA and NYC. We are doing the presentations in a wonderful rehearsal room with a giant tree blowing outside the window. We are hoping to light this tree for our presentation - hopefully the wind and rain will be there too. For more details - I will share as they come.
Oh - and Scott added some text that we are trying out. So far so good.
Second piece of news: there is a theater company in New York interested in producing the play in the Spring of '09. It is still in the discussion phase as of now - so I won't mention the Company involved. But I will say that their interest stems from seeing the Public LAB presentation as well - and that they thought the play was beautiful and about the risk involved in allowing another person to love you. And the absence of cynism - was not only heart warming, but also a little threatening - and something that the world should experience today. All of that was lovely.
Now that Trevor has jogged my memory of the blogging - I'll keep you posted about the Clark Presentation, and any news on the possible Spring Production.
Goodnight,
Padraic
I am in LAByrinth's off speaking with Trevor, who began the idea of blogging for the Play Development Process of the Public LAB presentation of SWEET STORM, and we were talking about the value of the blog in all of our Development or Production Processes. And well - I'm a fan. I love sharing the process with you - whomever you are, because I think the process of creating a play is challenging and should never be done alone. And sharing my experience with you - makes me understand it better, and possibly for those of you venturing into your own process reading these postings will give you comfort in your process. And for the voyeur or fan who is just curious what's happening with this play...hey good to see you again.
Two things happening with Scott Hudson's SWEET STORM. The first is after seeing the play at the Public LAB in June Clark University invited me up to work on the play with their students. We are doing a presentation with the similar level of tech as the Public LAB. It is more of a workshop for the actors. Who, thus far, are great. Leah and Dan are playing Ruthie and Bo. They are meeting every challenge and working as hard as they can. And they love the play. I also have the fortune of a brilliant post grad stage manager - Kate who is holding the tree house together as I commute to Worcester, MA and NYC. We are doing the presentations in a wonderful rehearsal room with a giant tree blowing outside the window. We are hoping to light this tree for our presentation - hopefully the wind and rain will be there too. For more details - I will share as they come.
Oh - and Scott added some text that we are trying out. So far so good.
Second piece of news: there is a theater company in New York interested in producing the play in the Spring of '09. It is still in the discussion phase as of now - so I won't mention the Company involved. But I will say that their interest stems from seeing the Public LAB presentation as well - and that they thought the play was beautiful and about the risk involved in allowing another person to love you. And the absence of cynism - was not only heart warming, but also a little threatening - and something that the world should experience today. All of that was lovely.
Now that Trevor has jogged my memory of the blogging - I'll keep you posted about the Clark Presentation, and any news on the possible Spring Production.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Follow Up
Howdy,
Hope all had a lovely 4th of July weekend. I didn't want to post because I love the picture of the company that worked on the production being the last shot on the blog. But then I realized eventually there would be other posts - so might as well go now. Also, Scott and I had a very productive follow up conversation on Thursday regarding the play and the process. Thank you to all of the comments, on the blog and in person. We really talked about - maybe this is directing and acting thought - but we talked about how when Ruthie really captures the Southern sweet girl she was before getting Polio - it really taps into the struggle she is facing as she confronts the negativity she is allowing to creep in. We also discussed with the wonderful detail work Eric T. and Jamie D. were doing, it allowed us to focus on the behavior of their relationship before the illness. I look forward to incorporating more of that work in any future productions. Also, Scott and I discussed the value of naming the illness, polio, in the play - it would have to organic and not expositional, but we don't want people guessing...for too long about what happened to Ruthie. That was a very useful note from the blog. Thank you for that.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Hope all had a lovely 4th of July weekend. I didn't want to post because I love the picture of the company that worked on the production being the last shot on the blog. But then I realized eventually there would be other posts - so might as well go now. Also, Scott and I had a very productive follow up conversation on Thursday regarding the play and the process. Thank you to all of the comments, on the blog and in person. We really talked about - maybe this is directing and acting thought - but we talked about how when Ruthie really captures the Southern sweet girl she was before getting Polio - it really taps into the struggle she is facing as she confronts the negativity she is allowing to creep in. We also discussed with the wonderful detail work Eric T. and Jamie D. were doing, it allowed us to focus on the behavior of their relationship before the illness. I look forward to incorporating more of that work in any future productions. Also, Scott and I discussed the value of naming the illness, polio, in the play - it would have to organic and not expositional, but we don't want people guessing...for too long about what happened to Ruthie. That was a very useful note from the blog. Thank you for that.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
The Cast and Crew!
Here's the team for Sweet Storm (not the whole team, but everyone present), assembled after the dress rehearsal, Thursday 6/19/08.
From left to right: Carly Whitaker (our Assistant Scenic Designer from Bennington), Sarah Sidman (one of LAB's fantastic Lighting Designers), Jamie Dunn (the one and only Ruthie), Jessica J. Felix (our tremendous Stage Manager), Eric T. Miller (the one and only Bo), Padraic our fine director, Martin Andrew (Scenic Designer), the playwright himself Scott Hudson, Elizabeth Rhodes (one of LAB's great Sound Designers), Lauren Lopez (production assistant extraordinaire), David Jackson (Assistant Director - and a genius with his own company, Impetuous Theater), and Becky Harris (our other Production Assistant extraordinaire).
Beautiful Photo by Thom Kaine.
From left to right: Carly Whitaker (our Assistant Scenic Designer from Bennington), Sarah Sidman (one of LAB's fantastic Lighting Designers), Jamie Dunn (the one and only Ruthie), Jessica J. Felix (our tremendous Stage Manager), Eric T. Miller (the one and only Bo), Padraic our fine director, Martin Andrew (Scenic Designer), the playwright himself Scott Hudson, Elizabeth Rhodes (one of LAB's great Sound Designers), Lauren Lopez (production assistant extraordinaire), David Jackson (Assistant Director - and a genius with his own company, Impetuous Theater), and Becky Harris (our other Production Assistant extraordinaire).
Beautiful Photo by Thom Kaine.
Production Photos 1
Here are the first of the production photos! Thom Kaine took these shots at the dress rehearsal on Thursday evening 6/19, and I think they're great. If you want to see more of his work, you can do so here. All the photos are of Eric T. Miller (playing Bo) and Jamie Dunn (playing Ruthie).
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Presentation 3 - Goodnight
Howdy,
This was our final presentation in the Public LAB workshop. The goal of our workshop was met. The play has been developed to its fullest and is in production fighting shape.
I will update you on any news regarding the play. I hope you enjoyed the show - and the development process. It is now time to hear your comments.
It has been an honor.
Goodnight,
Padraic
This was our final presentation in the Public LAB workshop. The goal of our workshop was met. The play has been developed to its fullest and is in production fighting shape.
I will update you on any news regarding the play. I hope you enjoyed the show - and the development process. It is now time to hear your comments.
It has been an honor.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Saturday, June 21, 2008
PERFORMANCE 3! 6/21/08 closing night
A great final performance. What a show.
Stage Manager notes: "Really Terrific Show! Nothing but the best from the audience. The actors took 2 curtain calls due to the ravenous applause! Moments that got a large response: Very Top Entrance, New Boxers, Mr. Jenkins burnin' in hell, Scrooge, Gloria Hattersfield, Blue Jay, Collecting the gardenias, Colas (open cooler and preacher push!!!!), Cutlery, Fish!!!, Ladder Break.
1 props note: All props are stored at the Shiva right now.
1 set note: Set Elements are stored in the Shiva right now.
1 costumes note: Becky washed all the costumes and they are stored in the Shiva.
Running time: 1 hour 13 minutes.
If you saw this performance, please post a comment and tell us your thoughts. The show might be over for now, but we'll be talking about it for a long time.
Stage Manager notes: "Really Terrific Show! Nothing but the best from the audience. The actors took 2 curtain calls due to the ravenous applause! Moments that got a large response: Very Top Entrance, New Boxers, Mr. Jenkins burnin' in hell, Scrooge, Gloria Hattersfield, Blue Jay, Collecting the gardenias, Colas (open cooler and preacher push!!!!), Cutlery, Fish!!!, Ladder Break.
1 props note: All props are stored at the Shiva right now.
1 set note: Set Elements are stored in the Shiva right now.
1 costumes note: Becky washed all the costumes and they are stored in the Shiva.
Running time: 1 hour 13 minutes.
If you saw this performance, please post a comment and tell us your thoughts. The show might be over for now, but we'll be talking about it for a long time.
Presentation 2 - director cut
Howdy,
I'm posting for continuity. I don't want to combine the two shows together because we did implement notes from what we learned during last night's run. Scott took one of Brett C's notes - and put it into the script. It truly added to the hope. Great eye for detail. And I talked with Jamie D. after my discussion with E-Rod. Her prep was great. Very powerful. Huge growth.
Only a couple of notes for tonight. And I saw a blocking opportunity that can help tell the story - we'll put that in. Also, we added water, meaning I sprayed the actors down before the show- you know, cuz it's raining outside, at the top of show - helped the reality. Bout time we tried that.
For more details - read below: You have the performance report and photos. Thanks Trevor.
Thanks Rebecca for your comments.
They are going to go even deeper, and more specific, with a spirit of play.
Designers rock. P.A. rock. Jessica...rocks them all.
Look forward to the final presentation tonight. We have learned a lot - and hope to learn more tonight.
Goodnight,
Padraic
I'm posting for continuity. I don't want to combine the two shows together because we did implement notes from what we learned during last night's run. Scott took one of Brett C's notes - and put it into the script. It truly added to the hope. Great eye for detail. And I talked with Jamie D. after my discussion with E-Rod. Her prep was great. Very powerful. Huge growth.
Only a couple of notes for tonight. And I saw a blocking opportunity that can help tell the story - we'll put that in. Also, we added water, meaning I sprayed the actors down before the show- you know, cuz it's raining outside, at the top of show - helped the reality. Bout time we tried that.
For more details - read below: You have the performance report and photos. Thanks Trevor.
Thanks Rebecca for your comments.
They are going to go even deeper, and more specific, with a spirit of play.
Designers rock. P.A. rock. Jessica...rocks them all.
Look forward to the final presentation tonight. We have learned a lot - and hope to learn more tonight.
Goodnight,
Padraic
PERFORMANCE 2! 6/21/08 matinee
Another happy audience. Partial standing ovation.
Stage Manager reports that there were "Huge responses for: Hanger!!, Boxers!!, Mrs. Owens section, Gloria Hatersfield, Blue Jays, Bo collecting the flowers, Colas, Cutlery, the whole Cake scene, The Fish!!!, Opening the radio."
Padraic will be giving the cast notes at 6pm, before tonight's performance.
Props note: cola cap still tight!
If you saw this performance, PLEASE POST A COMMENT!
Running time: 1 hour, 11 minutes (we gained 1 minute).
Stage Manager reports that there were "Huge responses for: Hanger!!, Boxers!!, Mrs. Owens section, Gloria Hatersfield, Blue Jays, Bo collecting the flowers, Colas, Cutlery, the whole Cake scene, The Fish!!!, Opening the radio."
Padraic will be giving the cast notes at 6pm, before tonight's performance.
Props note: cola cap still tight!
If you saw this performance, PLEASE POST A COMMENT!
Running time: 1 hour, 11 minutes (we gained 1 minute).
Production Photographs
Thom Kaine, one of LAByrinth's fantastic interns stepped in at the last minute to take photographs at the Dress Rehearsal (Monique, our irreplaceable Company Photographer, wasn't able to be there). The results are A WORK OF ART. We'll post them on the blog in a couple of days, but in the meantime, you can check them out here. (http://tkaine.carbonmade.com/projects/2080233#1)
Thanks Thom - great work!
Thanks Thom - great work!
Presentation 1 - "Open"
Howdy,
Way to go everyone. The pressure that became apparent yesterday, the pressure of sharing the work...well that pressure clarified what we needed to focus on. And the courage, strength and commitment to meet that challenge. We rehearsed a couple of clarifying moments - blocking with sound. A lighting moment or two, looked at and found the best quilt for the bed spread. Thank you Marieke for bringing in the perfect option.
Audience - it was sold out...but it also proved that if you come, you will get in. Everyone got a seat - so please, come to the theater and see the play.
This presentation tonight was fantastic - everything came together in a lovely way. Audience, actors, tech...all parts. There was a tremendous amount of love after the presentation. I'm not going to write about that too much. I hope you all will come and experience it for yourself tomorrow. Either at 2pm or 8pm.
However, I am going to focus on the 'development' aspect of presenting work like this. If it was a one time shot - I'd be basking in the glow of our success. And Scott and I would talk in a day or two after we come down from this achievement - and get a sense of clarity about what happened tonight. However, because we have a show at 2pm tomorrow. We celebrated tonight...and then scheduled rehearsal tomorrow morning. There are a couple of beats to look at again. Mainly to tighten up, to keep the stakes present, and - some people say louder, faster, funnier...but most of the time...faster is good for allowing the characters to be effected by what is going on in certain areas. The heightened emotions motivate things...and makes them less intellectual and more visceral. So we will explore that.
The other reason we are working is because it is a 'workshop' not a run. I don't want the cast, or Scott - to think we are done because the audience liked us. And there is a terror, or slight fear, that comfort will settle in. Rehearsal is not to prevent comfort but to focus or efforts.
Okay, one more thing I love about LAByrinth. I went to the E. 4th Street Bar after the presentation. Rounds of praise for all. And then when the backroom emptied E-Rod and I talked about how to make each moment more emotionally specific and deeper for the actors. She talked about the key being in the emotional preparation before going on stage. It was good...it was things the actors, Scott, and I talked about during the process...but to hear it again got me focused back on reminding the actors and pushing them to continue to reach. Even if it pushes off the security of what we had tonight...because we know what tonight was, but our goal is to see what the play can be.
After that conversation Brett C. had two text thoughts for Scott. Scott left early...but he asked Brett and he is passing them on to me. One of them is to remove the biggest laugh in the play...but with a lot of good emotionally honest reasons for the journey of the play. And Scott and I will talk about these points - and we do have rehearsal, so we can look at it. Put it up infront of the audience in the afternoon and try something else in the evening.
It is growing. So - if you came tonight...feel free to come again.
I'm very happy with the work of all. And excited about tomorrow knowing that everyone wants to continue working.
Hope to see you all tomorrow at the presentation.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Way to go everyone. The pressure that became apparent yesterday, the pressure of sharing the work...well that pressure clarified what we needed to focus on. And the courage, strength and commitment to meet that challenge. We rehearsed a couple of clarifying moments - blocking with sound. A lighting moment or two, looked at and found the best quilt for the bed spread. Thank you Marieke for bringing in the perfect option.
Audience - it was sold out...but it also proved that if you come, you will get in. Everyone got a seat - so please, come to the theater and see the play.
This presentation tonight was fantastic - everything came together in a lovely way. Audience, actors, tech...all parts. There was a tremendous amount of love after the presentation. I'm not going to write about that too much. I hope you all will come and experience it for yourself tomorrow. Either at 2pm or 8pm.
However, I am going to focus on the 'development' aspect of presenting work like this. If it was a one time shot - I'd be basking in the glow of our success. And Scott and I would talk in a day or two after we come down from this achievement - and get a sense of clarity about what happened tonight. However, because we have a show at 2pm tomorrow. We celebrated tonight...and then scheduled rehearsal tomorrow morning. There are a couple of beats to look at again. Mainly to tighten up, to keep the stakes present, and - some people say louder, faster, funnier...but most of the time...faster is good for allowing the characters to be effected by what is going on in certain areas. The heightened emotions motivate things...and makes them less intellectual and more visceral. So we will explore that.
The other reason we are working is because it is a 'workshop' not a run. I don't want the cast, or Scott - to think we are done because the audience liked us. And there is a terror, or slight fear, that comfort will settle in. Rehearsal is not to prevent comfort but to focus or efforts.
Okay, one more thing I love about LAByrinth. I went to the E. 4th Street Bar after the presentation. Rounds of praise for all. And then when the backroom emptied E-Rod and I talked about how to make each moment more emotionally specific and deeper for the actors. She talked about the key being in the emotional preparation before going on stage. It was good...it was things the actors, Scott, and I talked about during the process...but to hear it again got me focused back on reminding the actors and pushing them to continue to reach. Even if it pushes off the security of what we had tonight...because we know what tonight was, but our goal is to see what the play can be.
After that conversation Brett C. had two text thoughts for Scott. Scott left early...but he asked Brett and he is passing them on to me. One of them is to remove the biggest laugh in the play...but with a lot of good emotionally honest reasons for the journey of the play. And Scott and I will talk about these points - and we do have rehearsal, so we can look at it. Put it up infront of the audience in the afternoon and try something else in the evening.
It is growing. So - if you came tonight...feel free to come again.
I'm very happy with the work of all. And excited about tomorrow knowing that everyone wants to continue working.
Hope to see you all tomorrow at the presentation.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Friday, June 20, 2008
PERFORMANCE 1! 6/20/08
A fantastic first performance. Everybody very pleased. The audience gave the show a standing ovation, and thunderous applause went on for over a minute after the actors had finished their bows.
Stage Manager notes: "Moments the audience really liked: the no hanger situation, Bo showing his boxers!!!, Mr. Jenkins going to hell, The Gloria Hattersfield story, The getting of the Cola, The Cola Push!!!, Gettsyburg, Cutlery!!!, The Wedding Fish!!!"
2 notes for the actors.
1 props note (a cola cap was on too tight - adjust for preset)
1 costume note (approval for the boxer shorts!)
Running time: 1 hour, 10 minutes.
If you saw this performance, PLEASE POST A COMMENT!
Stage Manager notes: "Moments the audience really liked: the no hanger situation, Bo showing his boxers!!!, Mr. Jenkins going to hell, The Gloria Hattersfield story, The getting of the Cola, The Cola Push!!!, Gettsyburg, Cutlery!!!, The Wedding Fish!!!"
2 notes for the actors.
1 props note (a cola cap was on too tight - adjust for preset)
1 costume note (approval for the boxer shorts!)
Running time: 1 hour, 10 minutes.
If you saw this performance, PLEASE POST A COMMENT!
Day 13 - Wait, people are actually going to see this?
Howdy,
In preparation of sharing the 'rehearsal' process with the public tomorrow and Saturday. We spent three hours 'teching' - really that means setting levels, and timing on sound cues - specifying the lighting cues. And for the first time when watching you start to question shit that never bothered you before - and wouldn't in a rehearsal. For example - they wear white, white nightgown, white t-shirt, white boxers...maybe the bed shouldn't be all white?
Getting the shout outs out of the way: In order for people to be able to see this forever Tom came and took pictures for us. Thank you for doing this. We're going to want to look at these pictures later. Trevor stopped by, confirmed some people are reading this blog - which is nice because yesterday, I actually wrote something smart. I hope to duplicate that later in this blog - if not smart, at least, honest.
Big ups to all designers - Lea, Martin, Betsy, and Sarah. Thanks Marieke, Nola, Scout, and Kpoe for being around - making sure all things ran smoothly. Lauren was not feeling well in the first half of the day and Becky stepped in admirably. Both were operating at full capacity by the run through in the evening. Carly, thanks - and Danny not enough appreciation can go to having an actual production meeting. Things are going smooth, remarkably so, I believe the absence of the need of the production meeting is caused by the fact that we were having a production meeting.
Okay...Big ups to all.
Here are the signs that people were suddenly aware we were going to have an audience tomorrow: Playwright totally questioning the performances during 'tech'. or questioning his writing during 'tech'. Or all of a sudden you, the director, is thinkin - I can't stop the run through when one of the actors completely lost their character behavior because the actors - and designers have to see how thier work is supporting the story in real time....oh bullshit everyone would go with it, I feel like we need to get through it, as rough as it is, so that the first time in front of the audience - isn't our first time through it. The purity of the experience - always shifts when you invite people in. Immediately the joy of process gets challenged by the awareness that others are only going to see this once...and you want them to see the best version of your work. Especially if the play only gets presented three times over two days. We want you to see the best play we can do...two days ago...we wanted to explore and grow as much as possible. It took ten minutes after the run through to clean up one tech moment - and for the actor to reexperience and own her or his character behavior. Not playing the obstacle - but the hope. Faith is restored. But it is important that an audience see the work because that is the most important part of the development. It can 'feel' good to us - but our obligation is to tell the story. And we want to tell the story to you. Hope you will all check out the play. Thanks to those who stopped by to check out our run through tonight.
Final big ups to David Jackson - keeping tabs on all that needs tabs kept on, and to Jessica for running it all smooth and getting two, three, nine things done when I'm focusing on one. Today ran wonderfully smooth.
Goodnight,
Padraic
In preparation of sharing the 'rehearsal' process with the public tomorrow and Saturday. We spent three hours 'teching' - really that means setting levels, and timing on sound cues - specifying the lighting cues. And for the first time when watching you start to question shit that never bothered you before - and wouldn't in a rehearsal. For example - they wear white, white nightgown, white t-shirt, white boxers...maybe the bed shouldn't be all white?
Getting the shout outs out of the way: In order for people to be able to see this forever Tom came and took pictures for us. Thank you for doing this. We're going to want to look at these pictures later. Trevor stopped by, confirmed some people are reading this blog - which is nice because yesterday, I actually wrote something smart. I hope to duplicate that later in this blog - if not smart, at least, honest.
Big ups to all designers - Lea, Martin, Betsy, and Sarah. Thanks Marieke, Nola, Scout, and Kpoe for being around - making sure all things ran smoothly. Lauren was not feeling well in the first half of the day and Becky stepped in admirably. Both were operating at full capacity by the run through in the evening. Carly, thanks - and Danny not enough appreciation can go to having an actual production meeting. Things are going smooth, remarkably so, I believe the absence of the need of the production meeting is caused by the fact that we were having a production meeting.
Okay...Big ups to all.
Here are the signs that people were suddenly aware we were going to have an audience tomorrow: Playwright totally questioning the performances during 'tech'. or questioning his writing during 'tech'. Or all of a sudden you, the director, is thinkin - I can't stop the run through when one of the actors completely lost their character behavior because the actors - and designers have to see how thier work is supporting the story in real time....oh bullshit everyone would go with it, I feel like we need to get through it, as rough as it is, so that the first time in front of the audience - isn't our first time through it. The purity of the experience - always shifts when you invite people in. Immediately the joy of process gets challenged by the awareness that others are only going to see this once...and you want them to see the best version of your work. Especially if the play only gets presented three times over two days. We want you to see the best play we can do...two days ago...we wanted to explore and grow as much as possible. It took ten minutes after the run through to clean up one tech moment - and for the actor to reexperience and own her or his character behavior. Not playing the obstacle - but the hope. Faith is restored. But it is important that an audience see the work because that is the most important part of the development. It can 'feel' good to us - but our obligation is to tell the story. And we want to tell the story to you. Hope you will all check out the play. Thanks to those who stopped by to check out our run through tonight.
Final big ups to David Jackson - keeping tabs on all that needs tabs kept on, and to Jessica for running it all smooth and getting two, three, nine things done when I'm focusing on one. Today ran wonderfully smooth.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Day 12 - Production management
Howdy,
(Ticket selling moment) I got to see Eric in his underwear today. They fit perfect and Jamie D, and him in the world of the play in their white garments really feel right. I'm telling you that Scott Hudson sure knows how to write a crowd pleaser. yes, I hear we are sold out. Please don't let this prevent you from attending - tickets may be released. You might be able to get in...all the optomistic things I want to say because I want you to see the play. It is beautiful. Or come tomorrow at 7:30 and we'll do an open final run through. Big news we have Danny - a Production Manager, on the job a day and already our bed is sturdier, the position of the light board is clear, and the things we aren't sure about...we aren't sure about them because we've gotten the most informed answers of options that could happen with road boxes we are using for walls...and etc. But we also have good back up plans. I said there was a mystery prop person - and Dina Janis wanted to remind me it may have been Carly from Bennington. Carly designed the set at Bennington, and did a lovely job. We are grateful for her continued effort on the play. Thank you Carly. However, there are other mystery prop people that have been dropping off new things every day...and today we had another person bring more props...the support and help from every direction has been appreciated. Martin was in today...planning out the hinge for the 'rehearsal' trap door as well as cleaning up other presentation ideas. We are very close to getting ready. Sarah Sidman was in today...sharing her thoughts on presentation. But also, and this is what I love about designers, she gave me the first note on the text from anyone besides myself and Scott. I love the engagement and the challenge designers bring the process. As the actors, writers, stage managers, and directors don't stop working in the rehearsal room, either do the designers in the process. Tomorrow we will begin putting the elements together - in workshop manner, for sharing the process with the audience.
Today we worked some blocking at the top of the play. Tightening the action to word. And then we revisited certain moments - making it more and more specific. We talked about what I appreciate most about LAByrinth, and that is the fact that our play is very good. I'm not being cocky to say this...it is very good. But we are striving for great. And greatness is in the details - and Scott and I only care that the actors continue to strive for the specificness of the characters. The NEED that resides in the characters....and Jamie D. and Eric T. each day touch into that need a little more each time. We will get as close to it as we can...and the commitment is to try to get as close as we can with each attempt, and closer the next time.
Becky good to have you back. You are needed. Especially now that the cakes have arrived. Thank you Andrea.
David Jackson thank you for the support and the facts.
Lauren...ten pounds of rain. Thanks.
And last a note of process: There is a point, just before public presentation of a play, when the essence can get lost - the purity of the first experience, the innocence of the character drifts a little to one side or the other, and the characters are a little more mature than they were just a few days ago. That maturity, is the knowledge of the actors' experience - and in the coming days they have the challenge of forgetting what they know...and like you, the opportunity to experience this lovely play for the first time.
I look forward to seeing it with you this weekend.
Goodnight,
Padraic
(Ticket selling moment) I got to see Eric in his underwear today. They fit perfect and Jamie D, and him in the world of the play in their white garments really feel right. I'm telling you that Scott Hudson sure knows how to write a crowd pleaser. yes, I hear we are sold out. Please don't let this prevent you from attending - tickets may be released. You might be able to get in...all the optomistic things I want to say because I want you to see the play. It is beautiful. Or come tomorrow at 7:30 and we'll do an open final run through. Big news we have Danny - a Production Manager, on the job a day and already our bed is sturdier, the position of the light board is clear, and the things we aren't sure about...we aren't sure about them because we've gotten the most informed answers of options that could happen with road boxes we are using for walls...and etc. But we also have good back up plans. I said there was a mystery prop person - and Dina Janis wanted to remind me it may have been Carly from Bennington. Carly designed the set at Bennington, and did a lovely job. We are grateful for her continued effort on the play. Thank you Carly. However, there are other mystery prop people that have been dropping off new things every day...and today we had another person bring more props...the support and help from every direction has been appreciated. Martin was in today...planning out the hinge for the 'rehearsal' trap door as well as cleaning up other presentation ideas. We are very close to getting ready. Sarah Sidman was in today...sharing her thoughts on presentation. But also, and this is what I love about designers, she gave me the first note on the text from anyone besides myself and Scott. I love the engagement and the challenge designers bring the process. As the actors, writers, stage managers, and directors don't stop working in the rehearsal room, either do the designers in the process. Tomorrow we will begin putting the elements together - in workshop manner, for sharing the process with the audience.
Today we worked some blocking at the top of the play. Tightening the action to word. And then we revisited certain moments - making it more and more specific. We talked about what I appreciate most about LAByrinth, and that is the fact that our play is very good. I'm not being cocky to say this...it is very good. But we are striving for great. And greatness is in the details - and Scott and I only care that the actors continue to strive for the specificness of the characters. The NEED that resides in the characters....and Jamie D. and Eric T. each day touch into that need a little more each time. We will get as close to it as we can...and the commitment is to try to get as close as we can with each attempt, and closer the next time.
Becky good to have you back. You are needed. Especially now that the cakes have arrived. Thank you Andrea.
David Jackson thank you for the support and the facts.
Lauren...ten pounds of rain. Thanks.
And last a note of process: There is a point, just before public presentation of a play, when the essence can get lost - the purity of the first experience, the innocence of the character drifts a little to one side or the other, and the characters are a little more mature than they were just a few days ago. That maturity, is the knowledge of the actors' experience - and in the coming days they have the challenge of forgetting what they know...and like you, the opportunity to experience this lovely play for the first time.
I look forward to seeing it with you this weekend.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Day 11 - never stop working
Howdy,
I didn't know what to title this post. But that seems most appropriate. What I love about a workshop is that everyone contributes, even on what is not thier job. Jessica Felix, our stage manager - and someone who deserves a post all to her own, and someday that may happen but like the Secret Service stage managers don't take curtain calls. But they do everything else. Today - the new nightgowns arrived and they are perfect. Lea was right. They are better than what we had, but they needed a little sewing to tighten up the neckline a bit. Jessica had white thread and a needle and fixed them both for us during the rehearsal. Martin came in this morning and we got new hooks and rope for the play. It is looking very good - still rehearsal hall - but a great looking rehearsal room. Regarding sound - I tried to make a wind machine out of Ricolla container. I was not successful - apparently there is a true science involved. But the idea was there. Thankfully, we are keeping it simple Lauren is the rainmaker once again for this new spot. Finger nails on a metal bucket - sweet music to us all.
Andrea is getting us cakes for tomorrow. Becky too is back tomorrow - don't know if that is a coincidence or not - but we will be happy to see both of them at rehearsal.
Today was a day of very specific behavior work. Even deeper. It seemed a little frustrating at one point for the actors. Understandably so, because it is so close. Actually the work is very good but in the details is where greatness lies - and there are moments of greatness. I love working with Scott because - he is supportive of the work, and yet always pushing to make it better. In the journey of making it great, sometimes makes the play messier. But it was a good push today because yesterday was the last day off before being in front of an audience - and I've been thinking about the presentation a little. And the presentation is always better if the detail work, in production as well as acting, is being strived for. Regarding Matthew's question regarding the trap. We don't have one - we have a rehearsal stand in. It is fitting with the style of the presentation. Shout outs again to grandma Shirley, Jewdee, and Matthew Barbot. Thanks for reading and sharing feedback. Also forgot to mention on Sunday David Deblinger stopped by rehearsal and it was nice to have his eye on the process.
One quick plug for all those trying to get tickets - it may be sold out. So please try to buy now. If it is sold out - know that some tickets are held and will be let go. We hope you try to see the play, we will do our best to get as many in as possible. On that note - tomorrow's rehearsal at 3:30 is open - and so is the run on Thursday at 7:30. Please know that both start times are flexible due to rehearsal needs.
We look forward to seeing you this weekend.
Goodnight,
Padraic
I didn't know what to title this post. But that seems most appropriate. What I love about a workshop is that everyone contributes, even on what is not thier job. Jessica Felix, our stage manager - and someone who deserves a post all to her own, and someday that may happen but like the Secret Service stage managers don't take curtain calls. But they do everything else. Today - the new nightgowns arrived and they are perfect. Lea was right. They are better than what we had, but they needed a little sewing to tighten up the neckline a bit. Jessica had white thread and a needle and fixed them both for us during the rehearsal. Martin came in this morning and we got new hooks and rope for the play. It is looking very good - still rehearsal hall - but a great looking rehearsal room. Regarding sound - I tried to make a wind machine out of Ricolla container. I was not successful - apparently there is a true science involved. But the idea was there. Thankfully, we are keeping it simple Lauren is the rainmaker once again for this new spot. Finger nails on a metal bucket - sweet music to us all.
Andrea is getting us cakes for tomorrow. Becky too is back tomorrow - don't know if that is a coincidence or not - but we will be happy to see both of them at rehearsal.
Today was a day of very specific behavior work. Even deeper. It seemed a little frustrating at one point for the actors. Understandably so, because it is so close. Actually the work is very good but in the details is where greatness lies - and there are moments of greatness. I love working with Scott because - he is supportive of the work, and yet always pushing to make it better. In the journey of making it great, sometimes makes the play messier. But it was a good push today because yesterday was the last day off before being in front of an audience - and I've been thinking about the presentation a little. And the presentation is always better if the detail work, in production as well as acting, is being strived for. Regarding Matthew's question regarding the trap. We don't have one - we have a rehearsal stand in. It is fitting with the style of the presentation. Shout outs again to grandma Shirley, Jewdee, and Matthew Barbot. Thanks for reading and sharing feedback. Also forgot to mention on Sunday David Deblinger stopped by rehearsal and it was nice to have his eye on the process.
One quick plug for all those trying to get tickets - it may be sold out. So please try to buy now. If it is sold out - know that some tickets are held and will be let go. We hope you try to see the play, we will do our best to get as many in as possible. On that note - tomorrow's rehearsal at 3:30 is open - and so is the run on Thursday at 7:30. Please know that both start times are flexible due to rehearsal needs.
We look forward to seeing you this weekend.
Goodnight,
Padraic
Final Day Off - Checked out a well Developed play
Howdy,
Holy crap is Hamlet in the park good. Well worth seeing for many reasons...the best is Michael Stuhlbarg's performance. Also, the grave digger scene has a trap door - an actual one. It was good to watch, it is the only moment I was thinking of Sweet Storm, during the captivating production. Back to the trap - we are simulating how it would be used, but the story telling elements of furniture coming out of the ground, and being thrown through it, and heads popping up, and the artistry of climbing out - we'll have to see how to incorporate that into the process.
Oh yeah - as well as to continue to shape the excellent performances.
And the sound - which we are going to try a few to be made live by Lauren, our new foley sound op. I hope I used that word properly. It's too late to google it.
Martin cleaned up the floor today - so our rehearsal taped out floor is more presentable. We hope the rest of the minimal needs will be there for the audience and tech on Thursday.
Andrea promises the cakes by tomorrow - we are looking forward to post show quality control of all that remains.
Tiger Woods is the greatest athlete in the world.
Congratulations Rocco Mediate!
Goodnight,
Padraic
Holy crap is Hamlet in the park good. Well worth seeing for many reasons...the best is Michael Stuhlbarg's performance. Also, the grave digger scene has a trap door - an actual one. It was good to watch, it is the only moment I was thinking of Sweet Storm, during the captivating production. Back to the trap - we are simulating how it would be used, but the story telling elements of furniture coming out of the ground, and being thrown through it, and heads popping up, and the artistry of climbing out - we'll have to see how to incorporate that into the process.
Oh yeah - as well as to continue to shape the excellent performances.
And the sound - which we are going to try a few to be made live by Lauren, our new foley sound op. I hope I used that word properly. It's too late to google it.
Martin cleaned up the floor today - so our rehearsal taped out floor is more presentable. We hope the rest of the minimal needs will be there for the audience and tech on Thursday.
Andrea promises the cakes by tomorrow - we are looking forward to post show quality control of all that remains.
Tiger Woods is the greatest athlete in the world.
Congratulations Rocco Mediate!
Goodnight,
Padraic
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Day ten - Our first Run Thru
Howdy,
For the first run through off - book, the work was really good. And the line notes are minimal. The audience helped to elevate some moments. It also pointed out what needs to be shaped or cared for a little more for the audience. Dialect and speed of talking by Bo - has to be cared for. Next is making sure in a very steep house of the Anspacher they are lifting their heads as well as thier voices.
Martin, Marieke, and Betsy were at the run. Martin has very little cleaning up for the set - we really like the rehearsal room feeling. Betsy's challenge is to make help us find a couple of more organic rehearsal sounds for wind - and rain. We added one more today. The wind is next. The reason we aren't using recorded wind again is because for the workshop we don't have the best quality speakers - so wind doesn't necessarily read as anything but maybe static. And we're just using what we need for story telling.
Eagle Eye Becky is out of town for a couple of days. Look forward to seeing her on Sunday.
Lyssa got the final touches for the program - including special thanks. Thanks to all reading the blog.
Tomorrow is a day off for actors, final set work is being done. No building, just fixing the bed, cleaning up some rope - cleanign up the floor plan. Stuff like that.
Regarding development process it is now focused on getting presentation tight, and the emotional depth honest and full - in order to learn if the play is a complete journey and supports what is asked for by the actors. So far it does - beautifully.
btw - learned the play is selling very well. If you are planning on attending - please order tickets in advance. We'd hate for you to miss the play.
Goodnight,
Padraic
For the first run through off - book, the work was really good. And the line notes are minimal. The audience helped to elevate some moments. It also pointed out what needs to be shaped or cared for a little more for the audience. Dialect and speed of talking by Bo - has to be cared for. Next is making sure in a very steep house of the Anspacher they are lifting their heads as well as thier voices.
Martin, Marieke, and Betsy were at the run. Martin has very little cleaning up for the set - we really like the rehearsal room feeling. Betsy's challenge is to make help us find a couple of more organic rehearsal sounds for wind - and rain. We added one more today. The wind is next. The reason we aren't using recorded wind again is because for the workshop we don't have the best quality speakers - so wind doesn't necessarily read as anything but maybe static. And we're just using what we need for story telling.
Eagle Eye Becky is out of town for a couple of days. Look forward to seeing her on Sunday.
Lyssa got the final touches for the program - including special thanks. Thanks to all reading the blog.
Tomorrow is a day off for actors, final set work is being done. No building, just fixing the bed, cleaning up some rope - cleanign up the floor plan. Stuff like that.
Regarding development process it is now focused on getting presentation tight, and the emotional depth honest and full - in order to learn if the play is a complete journey and supports what is asked for by the actors. So far it does - beautifully.
btw - learned the play is selling very well. If you are planning on attending - please order tickets in advance. We'd hate for you to miss the play.
Goodnight,
Padraic
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