We work with the framework of “Introduce and Expand.” This means that within the curriculum guide we have set for each week, exercises and ideas will be introduced in the first workshop of the week and improved and expanded upon in the second.
Week 1
Work on teambuilding, theatre games and creating a community. Start theme discussions. Identify group’s burning issues.
Week 2
Begin exploration of themes using improvisations. Incorporate movement and character exercises. Begin writing exercises.
There will be a Master Workshop in Movement/Dance
Week 3
Expand upon personal stories. Move from individual writing toward fictionalized story line or plot. Begin play-making. Experiment with Image Theatre Techniques to help create a group story. Recognize the leaders in the group.
There will be a Master Workshop in Physical Theatre/Clowning
Week 4
Continue Play development using active playmaking exercises that are theme and style based. Writing team should be assembled and meet briefly after workshop conclusion for ½ hour. There will be a Master Workshop in Stage Combat.
Week 5
Start setting play scenarios, plot, settings and characters. Technical ideas start to emerge for sets and costumes. Shift into rehearsal mode with stage manager, assistant director and backstage crew to be chosen TBA
Week 6
Final script is set and rehearsals proceed. Production meeting set for the end of the week with production crew as an added 3 hour slot on an extra day in the week.
Week 7
Continue with rehearsal adding as many tech elements as possible. Set understudies.
Run throughs of the play done for all design crew including choreographer, costume designer, sound and lighting designers. Paper tech in the theatre is held this week at the end of the week.
Week 8
On an expanded five hour schedule this would be tech and performance week. Extra rehearsal time is scheduled should the need arise. The Tech/Performance schedule should go as follows:
Tuesday: rehearsal tech 5 hours
Wednesday: rehearsal tech/dress 5 hours
Thursday: rehearsal/preview 5 hours
Friday: Opening/Performance/Reception 4 hours
A separate tech week schedule is drawn up by the director and stage manager. Performances usually are less than an hour in length and two performances can be done in one day for matinee and evening. Rehearsal time allowed can also be expanded two additional sessions for a nine or ten week workshop as can performance schedules.
