My thoughts on Snatch are that I can't understand what they are saying, but I love the film anyway. I had forgotten how many supporting characters there are and one thing about that is that the writer really paints the characters clearly, even if they are given very little screen time. I also like the production values and color scheme. If you notice, there is a large amount of yellow, black and green on the sets and backgrounds, lighting and costumes. This is something that, to me, makes a film great -- when purposeful and unifying decisions are made about character, script and production values.
All of you need to blog daily. Daily means once a day.
Also, Ian and Logan, you need to do a short write up on your choice of film.
Grades are sagging -- even Dave's grade.
Friday, May 9, 2008
Monday, May 5, 2008
Zoolander, Baby!
One thing I want to say about Zoolander is that it seems like a ridiculous movie, and it is a ridiculous movie, but it is also a very smart satire about the American Entertainment Industry. For example, the camera shots are all "MTV" shots, or rip-offs on fashion photography; the political protesters are poking fun at stars such as Angelina Jolie, etc. who fight for rights around the world. There is so much product placement (in the gas fight scene alone)- of course, most movies have that, but it is the tongue and cheek treatment of all of these things that I find so funny and pointed. I think the makers of the film (and probably led by Ben Stiller) are trying to point out that entertainment is entertainment and everything else - economics, politics, education - should probably stay in their own arenas. So I ask you - do you agree or disagree with this - the idea that American Entertainment is so all-encompassing that everything else (economy, politics, world affairs, education) is somehow tied to it. Or should entertainment just stand on its own, as entertainment? (Matty B. was also great in the film - Hansel is my favorite character by far.)
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Commentary and Film Stuff
Thanks to everyone for their commentary on the shows. It is an ever-changing evolving process, so we will see where next year takes us.
Ian, Eric, and Logan - oh, and Dave -
Here are my thoughts on V for Vendetta. Best Lines of Dialogue - Probably from the "Voice of London" as he harshes on America. Best shots - the ones through the fog when the masked man is taking over the news station - when he has all the guys wearing his masks. Creeptastic. I'm enjoying it so far. Please publish your comments.
Ian, Eric, and Logan - oh, and Dave -
Here are my thoughts on V for Vendetta. Best Lines of Dialogue - Probably from the "Voice of London" as he harshes on America. Best shots - the ones through the fog when the masked man is taking over the news station - when he has all the guys wearing his masks. Creeptastic. I'm enjoying it so far. Please publish your comments.
Monday, April 28, 2008
About your reflection...
From Ms. V-
Congratulations! I am very proud of each of you and think the 2008 show was outstanding! I'd like to second Ms. Houston's request for a post-mortem reflection on the plays, the process, and what you learned going forward.
Please write us a reflection about your experience - think about everything from writing, to auditions, to rehearsals, tech and performance. Also let us know how you feel about your finished product -- was it worth all the work? We would also like to hear any suggestions you have for the future. Keep in mind that next year, Ms. V will be not be here with us at school, so we are looking to streamline and pare down the show quite a bit.
Congratulations! I am very proud of each of you and think the 2008 show was outstanding! I'd like to second Ms. Houston's request for a post-mortem reflection on the plays, the process, and what you learned going forward.
Please write us a reflection about your experience - think about everything from writing, to auditions, to rehearsals, tech and performance. Also let us know how you feel about your finished product -- was it worth all the work? We would also like to hear any suggestions you have for the future. Keep in mind that next year, Ms. V will be not be here with us at school, so we are looking to streamline and pare down the show quite a bit.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Congratulations!
I thoroughly enjoyed myself!!! It was hilarious and entertaining and I really, really had a fun time watching your work come to life.
Those of you going on internship, I have one more thing I want you to do. I want everyone to write a final reflection on the blog. So, please check it one more time on Monday for directions about your reflection. It is important when your show is done for you to look back and see what was a success and what could be tweaked in your process for the future. So, that will be your final grade for the course.
Great work by all. I hope you understand now why Ms. Vander Schaaff, Mr. Harding, Alia, Ms. Hall, Ms. Bruno, everyone else we do shows with, and I keep doing shows. It is so much work, but the work always pays off in the end. And it is a feeling like no other...
Those of you going on internship, I have one more thing I want you to do. I want everyone to write a final reflection on the blog. So, please check it one more time on Monday for directions about your reflection. It is important when your show is done for you to look back and see what was a success and what could be tweaked in your process for the future. So, that will be your final grade for the course.
Great work by all. I hope you understand now why Ms. Vander Schaaff, Mr. Harding, Alia, Ms. Hall, Ms. Bruno, everyone else we do shows with, and I keep doing shows. It is so much work, but the work always pays off in the end. And it is a feeling like no other...
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Thursday, April 24th. Last Day before Opening!
Very good work today.Remember, tomorrow is a big day. I want to run all the way through with no stops. If something is wrong (a cue, a costume change, etc), I'd like to keep going and fix later.
Based on today, I think there might be a few places where actors forget a line. That's ok. Just tell them to keep going. At this point, it's the only option.
Also, when you are not on stage as an actor, and not watching the show you directed, I'd like to ask this:One director stands in in the hallway that goes to out to the hall. And, another director stands near the entrance to the dressing room on the other side. Your job will be to make sure that the running crew can get in and out without falling, or having actors/audience in their way. I feel that the two girls are a bit overwhelmed right now with those exits and entrances, and things will only get more chaotic. Also, you might need to help Kendell move a prop table, etc.
Would this work:Lauren: Marly and Andrew--help stand watch
Evan: Ian and Lauren
James: Evan and Marly
Ian: James and Andrew
Marly: Lauren and Ian
Andrew: (until you are needed on stage) James and Evan
Trade with anyone--just let me know the final list. Sarah Vander Schaaff
Based on today, I think there might be a few places where actors forget a line. That's ok. Just tell them to keep going. At this point, it's the only option.
Also, when you are not on stage as an actor, and not watching the show you directed, I'd like to ask this:One director stands in in the hallway that goes to out to the hall. And, another director stands near the entrance to the dressing room on the other side. Your job will be to make sure that the running crew can get in and out without falling, or having actors/audience in their way. I feel that the two girls are a bit overwhelmed right now with those exits and entrances, and things will only get more chaotic. Also, you might need to help Kendell move a prop table, etc.
Would this work:Lauren: Marly and Andrew--help stand watch
Evan: Ian and Lauren
James: Evan and Marly
Ian: James and Andrew
Marly: Lauren and Ian
Andrew: (until you are needed on stage) James and Evan
Trade with anyone--just let me know the final list. Sarah Vander Schaaff
WED.
From Ms. V-
Reminder that I need bio's from all of you. Got them from Marly, Lauren, Evan, Mike Lang, Andrew Hanks--thank you.
Also, need to get a group photo of all directors. Would like to get a group photo of all writers. I know you hate photos, and if you want, we can stage it looks more candid...
Also-as of now, props is getting sandwiches for Evan and for Lauren. No one else has said they need one from props. I have gotten word that a few of you will get special ones yourselves.
Reminder that I need bio's from all of you. Got them from Marly, Lauren, Evan, Mike Lang, Andrew Hanks--thank you.
Also, need to get a group photo of all directors. Would like to get a group photo of all writers. I know you hate photos, and if you want, we can stage it looks more candid...
Also-as of now, props is getting sandwiches for Evan and for Lauren. No one else has said they need one from props. I have gotten word that a few of you will get special ones yourselves.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Monday, April 21st
I know that today was a long day for you. If there are things that lay unsettled in your minds, you need to let Mr. Harding and Ms. Vander Schaaff know. Alia is running the lighting end of things because she has the most experience doing lighting design. If you feel that your needs are not being met, Mr. Harding and Alia need to know specifically what is not met. They made some adjustments after Andrew's play, and will be making more tomorrow, specifically to get Marly's lighting in order.
This is from Marly. I am posting it because I think that if others of you feel this way, then you need to tell us specifically what is being done by the adults in charge to make you feel disenfranchised from your visions. However, I also believe that in certain cases, compromises may need to be made.
From Marly:"It is surprising to me to see how many times this blog says the seniors run the shows, and that it's our turn to be in charge. I think a lot of us are feeling like we don't have total creative control over our shows, and we're not in charge. We've worked for four years essentially for this. We've had training and experience and now it's our turn to step up and do it. I think we are all open to suggestions, and understand we can't get everything we want, but in the end, it's our name that's going to be on the show. We want to make sure it's our product. I can only speak for myself, but I was disappointed with today."
IF ANY OF YOU FEEL THAT YOUR SHOW DOES NOT FEEL LIKE YOUR PRODUCT, NOW IS THE TIME TO SAY SOMETHING.
This is a complex work in progress. It is our largest Spring endeavor, in some ways. So, keep the faith and keep communicating. WE CAN DO IT>
This is from Marly. I am posting it because I think that if others of you feel this way, then you need to tell us specifically what is being done by the adults in charge to make you feel disenfranchised from your visions. However, I also believe that in certain cases, compromises may need to be made.
From Marly:"It is surprising to me to see how many times this blog says the seniors run the shows, and that it's our turn to be in charge. I think a lot of us are feeling like we don't have total creative control over our shows, and we're not in charge. We've worked for four years essentially for this. We've had training and experience and now it's our turn to step up and do it. I think we are all open to suggestions, and understand we can't get everything we want, but in the end, it's our name that's going to be on the show. We want to make sure it's our product. I can only speak for myself, but I was disappointed with today."
IF ANY OF YOU FEEL THAT YOUR SHOW DOES NOT FEEL LIKE YOUR PRODUCT, NOW IS THE TIME TO SAY SOMETHING.
This is a complex work in progress. It is our largest Spring endeavor, in some ways. So, keep the faith and keep communicating. WE CAN DO IT>
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Sat. April 19th
About Friday's rehearsal from Ms. V. Important -- all of you need to read this.
Rob and Greg: Running crew was late today to rehearsal. I am not sure why. From now on, they need to know that they are a big part of the process. They should arrive early, if not perfectly on time for each call. Make sure they know all call times.
Rob and Greg: when/how does all the stuff in the black box that's not needed get moved out of the bb? (ie, trash, odds and ends, unidentified objects).
Rob and Greg--we need working headsets for Monday. I want to be able to talk to you in the booth from down below.
Evan--Mike did a great job with your actors and set. We need to work the business of adding the chairs for the plane. Mike can explain. But, this is something that we could not rehearse with the folks missing.
Ian--your actors did not know much about where things went. It was a mess.
Today was a bit messy, and not what I would call smooth, but I think we identified problems and I am glad we had them come up today instead of on Monday. I think of today as a bonus day.All- From now on, think of yourselves as "in charge" of your shows. You need to be decisive and clear about your needs and how they get accomplished. The only way for that to happen is to come to each day with a clear plan.
Note from Houston: Houston's stuff will be moved soon. If not this weekend, then on Tues. during school. Rob and Greg- what I don't move will need to be moved by your crew.
Note from Houston: Seniors: Ms. V, Mr. Harding and Alia are basically done with their jobs; you run this next week. It is overwhelming, but it will be manageable if you have control over your actors and a clear plan for what you want this week to be like. Rob and Greg - you need to step up big time right now to educate your crew- they are beginners and it is your job to teach them. Directors - you need to be early to all rehearsals and have a clear idea of how you are going to get everyone on board for your needs. That includes running crew, Rob and Greg. You need to be able to give specific directions and articulate what you need when. Mr. Harding described Friday as "Unfocused" in terms of the crew. In my opinion, the director of the play sets the tone for how the actors and crew should behave during tech week, in addition to the TD and Stage Manager presenting a motivated, organized tone for their crew.
Rob and Greg: Running crew was late today to rehearsal. I am not sure why. From now on, they need to know that they are a big part of the process. They should arrive early, if not perfectly on time for each call. Make sure they know all call times.
Rob and Greg: when/how does all the stuff in the black box that's not needed get moved out of the bb? (ie, trash, odds and ends, unidentified objects).
Rob and Greg--we need working headsets for Monday. I want to be able to talk to you in the booth from down below.
Evan--Mike did a great job with your actors and set. We need to work the business of adding the chairs for the plane. Mike can explain. But, this is something that we could not rehearse with the folks missing.
Ian--your actors did not know much about where things went. It was a mess.
Today was a bit messy, and not what I would call smooth, but I think we identified problems and I am glad we had them come up today instead of on Monday. I think of today as a bonus day.All- From now on, think of yourselves as "in charge" of your shows. You need to be decisive and clear about your needs and how they get accomplished. The only way for that to happen is to come to each day with a clear plan.
Note from Houston: Houston's stuff will be moved soon. If not this weekend, then on Tues. during school. Rob and Greg- what I don't move will need to be moved by your crew.
Note from Houston: Seniors: Ms. V, Mr. Harding and Alia are basically done with their jobs; you run this next week. It is overwhelming, but it will be manageable if you have control over your actors and a clear plan for what you want this week to be like. Rob and Greg - you need to step up big time right now to educate your crew- they are beginners and it is your job to teach them. Directors - you need to be early to all rehearsals and have a clear idea of how you are going to get everyone on board for your needs. That includes running crew, Rob and Greg. You need to be able to give specific directions and articulate what you need when. Mr. Harding described Friday as "Unfocused" in terms of the crew. In my opinion, the director of the play sets the tone for how the actors and crew should behave during tech week, in addition to the TD and Stage Manager presenting a motivated, organized tone for their crew.
Friday, April 18, 2008
7th period people!!!
I can't meet with you today during 4th, as I initially suggested. Please try to swing by and see me so we can touch base (even if it is at the start of 7th).
LH
LH
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Friday April 17th
1. Reminder that tomorrow (Friday) everyone is called for rehearsal and we are running through scene changes. I know some will be gone for Chorus Tour.
2. Your music is due to Rob tomorrow. If you are going on chorus tour, do you have a plan to give Rob your music? Evan, Ian, Marly--I know you'll all be gone. Does Rob have your CD's?
3. Prop Table is being set up. We will set up the first three shows (Lauren,Evan,James) and then at intermission place props for the second 3 shows (Ian, Marly,Andrew). Make sure your actors understand that they must check their props, get them off the table in time for an entrance, and REPLACE them on the table when done. Props get lost because actors don't return them to the prop table.
4. ALL--did you decide on music for pre-show and intermission? If not, then Lauren, since you are up first, maybe you should bring in a few songs that you'd like to set the tone leading into your show. Ian, same for you, in terms of heading out of intermission and into your show..If you don't have these for Friday, bring for Monday.
ALL- props had a question about the SANDWICHES in all the plays. Are the directors bringing them in or do you need props to make them/bring them for each show?
Logan and Eric-I would imagine that Greg would need your movie clips as soon as humanly possible. Hopefully, by Tuesday's rehearsal. Please make sure this gets done in a timely fashion.
MIKE NEEDS ALL THE PROGRAM STUFF THREE DAYS AGO. THIS IS NOT A JOKE.
2. Your music is due to Rob tomorrow. If you are going on chorus tour, do you have a plan to give Rob your music? Evan, Ian, Marly--I know you'll all be gone. Does Rob have your CD's?
3. Prop Table is being set up. We will set up the first three shows (Lauren,Evan,James) and then at intermission place props for the second 3 shows (Ian, Marly,Andrew). Make sure your actors understand that they must check their props, get them off the table in time for an entrance, and REPLACE them on the table when done. Props get lost because actors don't return them to the prop table.
4. ALL--did you decide on music for pre-show and intermission? If not, then Lauren, since you are up first, maybe you should bring in a few songs that you'd like to set the tone leading into your show. Ian, same for you, in terms of heading out of intermission and into your show..If you don't have these for Friday, bring for Monday.
ALL- props had a question about the SANDWICHES in all the plays. Are the directors bringing them in or do you need props to make them/bring them for each show?
Logan and Eric-I would imagine that Greg would need your movie clips as soon as humanly possible. Hopefully, by Tuesday's rehearsal. Please make sure this gets done in a timely fashion.
MIKE NEEDS ALL THE PROGRAM STUFF THREE DAYS AGO. THIS IS NOT A JOKE.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Thursday's entry made on Wed.
From Ms. Houston-Directors and Mel - if there are any costumes that need to be bought, I need to know very soon. This weekend would be the last chance for me to buy them. Thanks.
From Ms. V: Long, but very important. Matty B./Mike/Logan and Eric - you do not need to read this.
Directors, just a few notes about Tech. 1. We will integrate sound cues on Monday when we do the cue to cue. Your CD's are due this Friday. I am sure Houston has already asked you to edit them as much as possible, and mark what seconds of each track you want. Make sure these are handed in as clearly marked as possible so that DAVE, our sound board op, can follow along easily. Your CD's should have your show or name on them, too.2. Greg is our stage manager. When it's your turn to tech, you will sit in the booth with him.3. If your show is not teching, you and your actors should be in the hall--run lines, etc.4. If your show is "on deck" to tech next, keep track of your actors like a mother hen. We have 6 shows, folks. No missing actors. You are responsible for keeping them focused and ready to go.5. We are starting the Tech on Monday at 9am. Tell your actors to arrive by 8:45 to get food. We are starting at 9am sharp. They should not "arrive at 9".6. Our goal is to do the cue to cue on Monday and finish on Tuesday. Wed. we will do a run. Thursday final dress in the evening. And, on Friday and Sat we have an audience. 7. Remember that this week flies by and gets a little crazy. Try to think through what you need to do each day and how to make the best use of your time. I know you have school work and life to deal with in addition to this play. I don't want you to feel overwhelmed. We have more support this year--Alia and Mr. Harding--than ever before. So, if you give the tech crew what they need when they need it, they can help make your shows look great.
From Ms. V: Long, but very important. Matty B./Mike/Logan and Eric - you do not need to read this.
Directors, just a few notes about Tech. 1. We will integrate sound cues on Monday when we do the cue to cue. Your CD's are due this Friday. I am sure Houston has already asked you to edit them as much as possible, and mark what seconds of each track you want. Make sure these are handed in as clearly marked as possible so that DAVE, our sound board op, can follow along easily. Your CD's should have your show or name on them, too.2. Greg is our stage manager. When it's your turn to tech, you will sit in the booth with him.3. If your show is not teching, you and your actors should be in the hall--run lines, etc.4. If your show is "on deck" to tech next, keep track of your actors like a mother hen. We have 6 shows, folks. No missing actors. You are responsible for keeping them focused and ready to go.5. We are starting the Tech on Monday at 9am. Tell your actors to arrive by 8:45 to get food. We are starting at 9am sharp. They should not "arrive at 9".6. Our goal is to do the cue to cue on Monday and finish on Tuesday. Wed. we will do a run. Thursday final dress in the evening. And, on Friday and Sat we have an audience. 7. Remember that this week flies by and gets a little crazy. Try to think through what you need to do each day and how to make the best use of your time. I know you have school work and life to deal with in addition to this play. I don't want you to feel overwhelmed. We have more support this year--Alia and Mr. Harding--than ever before. So, if you give the tech crew what they need when they need it, they can help make your shows look great.
Wed. April 16th
No alcoholic on poster.
I would assume that the tech crew would need to know about all set changes by this Friday. I have recommended to Rob that Friday's rehearsal may just be a "moving stuff" walk through rehearsal with the people who are here. There is a great likelihood that actors will need to move things as well as Anita and Elyse, so everyone should plan on Friday being a run through of all six shows of set changes only. Like a speed through. We did one or more of those for Stargirl, remember? Thoughts on this? I would like to especially hear from Rob on this one. And all six directors.
Also, Logan and Eric, I want to see your videos and Ms. VS should see it, too. That way we can weigh in on changes as soon as possible.
Program stuff needs to get to Mike and Matty b. Start with final cast lists first, and then you can take more time on thanks and director's notes.
I would assume that the tech crew would need to know about all set changes by this Friday. I have recommended to Rob that Friday's rehearsal may just be a "moving stuff" walk through rehearsal with the people who are here. There is a great likelihood that actors will need to move things as well as Anita and Elyse, so everyone should plan on Friday being a run through of all six shows of set changes only. Like a speed through. We did one or more of those for Stargirl, remember? Thoughts on this? I would like to especially hear from Rob on this one. And all six directors.
Also, Logan and Eric, I want to see your videos and Ms. VS should see it, too. That way we can weigh in on changes as soon as possible.
Program stuff needs to get to Mike and Matty b. Start with final cast lists first, and then you can take more time on thanks and director's notes.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Tuesday April 15th
We should order the tshirts today or tomorrow. Marly - talk to Houston about that.
7th period - I have a class now during 7th period that is not you guys. So, it would be easier for me if we could meet briefly at the start of 4th period this Friday.
Mr. Harding knows nothing about anyone's lighting, so he is coming to 6th period today. Marly and Andrew - you will need to talk directly to Mr. Harding about your lighting today.
That's it.
Evan - was that short enough for you?
7th period - I have a class now during 7th period that is not you guys. So, it would be easier for me if we could meet briefly at the start of 4th period this Friday.
Mr. Harding knows nothing about anyone's lighting, so he is coming to 6th period today. Marly and Andrew - you will need to talk directly to Mr. Harding about your lighting today.
That's it.
Evan - was that short enough for you?
Monday, April 14, 2008
Monday April 14
Here are some reminders from Ms. Vander Schaaff:
1. Reminder that I need the contact sheet. I 'd like to post it and make copies for the cast, but it's also essential as we head into tech. Please make sure I get a copy on Monday.
2. Please remind your casts that if they were not at rehearsal on Friday that they need to check the bulletin board. There is a sign-up sheet for T-shirts (note your size), as well as sheets that people must sign if they are going on chorus tour or a boarder.
3. Mike, Matty B, Eric--if you want T-shirts/charms, you should sign up on the sheet, too. I have asked Mr. Harding to help get the crew's sizes, etc.
4. Rehearsal on Monday, April 21 (Kingswood Day) has been extended to 1pm. It will now be 9am-1pm.
5. I need clean copies of Ian and James' scripts.
6. Ticket reservations for cast and crew should be made via email. Tickets@pennington.org
From Houston: You will need to send your program information to Matty B. and Mike this week. You need to list your casts/characters (make sure names are spelled correctly), a brief director's note (why you wrote this, your inspiration, any other info. that your audience should know about your vision, the play, etc.), time period/setting information. We will also do a page of special thanks, so if there were individuals who helped make this show possible for you, we will include them on that page. (Logan and Eric need to work on their video, so until they are done with that, M and M will be working on the program and ticketing)
Rob/Greg- Please send Matty B & Mike the list of crew and their respective jobs.
I want a medium sized shirt.
1. Reminder that I need the contact sheet. I 'd like to post it and make copies for the cast, but it's also essential as we head into tech. Please make sure I get a copy on Monday.
2. Please remind your casts that if they were not at rehearsal on Friday that they need to check the bulletin board. There is a sign-up sheet for T-shirts (note your size), as well as sheets that people must sign if they are going on chorus tour or a boarder.
3. Mike, Matty B, Eric--if you want T-shirts/charms, you should sign up on the sheet, too. I have asked Mr. Harding to help get the crew's sizes, etc.
4. Rehearsal on Monday, April 21 (Kingswood Day) has been extended to 1pm. It will now be 9am-1pm.
5. I need clean copies of Ian and James' scripts.
6. Ticket reservations for cast and crew should be made via email. Tickets@pennington.org
From Houston: You will need to send your program information to Matty B. and Mike this week. You need to list your casts/characters (make sure names are spelled correctly), a brief director's note (why you wrote this, your inspiration, any other info. that your audience should know about your vision, the play, etc.), time period/setting information. We will also do a page of special thanks, so if there were individuals who helped make this show possible for you, we will include them on that page. (Logan and Eric need to work on their video, so until they are done with that, M and M will be working on the program and ticketing)
Rob/Greg- Please send Matty B & Mike the list of crew and their respective jobs.
I want a medium sized shirt.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Friday April 11
Please make sure your actors bring in their costumes from home.
We tech in one week.
Mr. Harding needs to know about your lighting needs ASAP.
Next week we will work on the program, so be thinking about that.
James, and others, I have a billion books with warm up games in them.
Tell your cast about TICKETS. There will be about 100 seats per night, so people need to be conservative.
Mike, thanks for helping Evan.
Evan - I knew you could do it!
Melanie - What else do you need and did you ever talk to Evan?
Someone - get Greg and Alia on the blog, please. Thanks.
We tech in one week.
Mr. Harding needs to know about your lighting needs ASAP.
Next week we will work on the program, so be thinking about that.
James, and others, I have a billion books with warm up games in them.
Tell your cast about TICKETS. There will be about 100 seats per night, so people need to be conservative.
Mike, thanks for helping Evan.
Evan - I knew you could do it!
Melanie - What else do you need and did you ever talk to Evan?
Someone - get Greg and Alia on the blog, please. Thanks.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Thursday April 10 - afternoon
Cast and Crew ticket reservations can be taken starting Monday, April 14th via tickets@pennington.org. Admission will be free.
Please tell your casts and the crew (Ian tell Greg to tell them)
The rest of the school and world can make reservations starting Tuesday, April 22nd. Mike and Matty B. will get that into the announcements at the end of next week.
I highly recommend (demand) that each director run a warm up to start their rehearsal starting today. Now is also the time to have your off-stage or unlit actors practice being still and silent, or act out their motivations, if they are silent, yet still part of the scene.
Can someone give Alia this blog address? Marly? Lauren?
Enjoy the afternoon.
Please tell your casts and the crew (Ian tell Greg to tell them)
The rest of the school and world can make reservations starting Tuesday, April 22nd. Mike and Matty B. will get that into the announcements at the end of next week.
I highly recommend (demand) that each director run a warm up to start their rehearsal starting today. Now is also the time to have your off-stage or unlit actors practice being still and silent, or act out their motivations, if they are silent, yet still part of the scene.
Can someone give Alia this blog address? Marly? Lauren?
Enjoy the afternoon.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Emergency: Your attention and opinions are Needed!
This is coming from observations by Ms. Vander Schaaff: We will cover this subject in class tomorrow, but I also want everyone to weigh in on this. This happens every year at some point -- you are all beginning directors and also working with younger actors.
I am italicizing this because it is of the utmost importance.
I am noticing that some of the staging is flat. We have a lot of young
actors who do not yet have the instinct to create dynamic stage pictures.
The directors will have to work extra hard to avoid a few pitfalls:
1. All actors standing in a line
2. All actors walking on stage b/c they were told "to walk on stage"
instead of b/c their characters need something or need to go somewhere
3. Actors closing the distance with another actor-working as if they
are in film instead of in theatre where distance is key
4. Upstaging themselves or others
5. Playing the scene in the back of theatre instead of the playing
space downstage
So, how do you avoid these things? How do you tweak a scene, or teach an
actor to find and create stage pictures? And, how do you make entrances and
exits dynamic? A lot of entrances are coming from the same places right now,
and are flat instead of on an angle.
Houston's Two Cents: You may have to hand feed motivations and stories to your actors at this point. The rehearsal period is short. You may need to give them a reason for entering, you may need to give them a place they are coming from and a destination for where they are headed. You can ask them what their character thinks of a main character who is speaking. Tell them to listen to the action as if they are hearing it for the first time. Ask them how they would react to things going on. Some of my favorite moments of all the plays at Pennington are the background people making their own story line - so ask your actors to do that - to make their own story - this would be especially important in Lauren's piece, and if Evan ever gets more people for his plane, and if there are any people in Ian's bar. Think of the viewpoints (I'm not joking). Think of the Viewpoint (those of you who had Adv. Drama) called "Topography". You will need to make a visual map in your head of where people are entering and exiting and how they are moving and using the space. Here is a hint that is Basic Drama material -- any intimate (between 2 important characters) scenes really need to take place downstage near the audience. I know that Mr. Harding and I have encouraged you to use all the space/depth of the stage, but you have to be choosy about which conversations take place where. It is theatre, so you can sometimes ignore actual architecture. Like in Evan's show, certain conversations from the back of the plane could perhaps be off to the side, more downstage, isolated in light. As long as you make things like this a convention to your audience, they will believe it is real. Some of this will come with costume and lighting, but you need to manage the movement and blocking onstage. Now that Alia is here to be on book, or work with actors one on one with their lines, you should attend to the entire visual picture and mapping of how people are moving. We'll work on this in class. I'm assuming that Marly's show might fall out of this category, but I'm sure she has some insight into this subject. Mike is the master of this, so his opinion will be quite valid. Andrew Hanks, we can talk about his on Friday during 7th. 6th period, we will attend to this tomorrow (thurs.)
I want each of you to identify one scene that is falling flat in the way Ms. V. describes. We will work on strategies for each of those scenes.
I am italicizing this because it is of the utmost importance.
I am noticing that some of the staging is flat. We have a lot of young
actors who do not yet have the instinct to create dynamic stage pictures.
The directors will have to work extra hard to avoid a few pitfalls:
1. All actors standing in a line
2. All actors walking on stage b/c they were told "to walk on stage"
instead of b/c their characters need something or need to go somewhere
3. Actors closing the distance with another actor-working as if they
are in film instead of in theatre where distance is key
4. Upstaging themselves or others
5. Playing the scene in the back of theatre instead of the playing
space downstage
So, how do you avoid these things? How do you tweak a scene, or teach an
actor to find and create stage pictures? And, how do you make entrances and
exits dynamic? A lot of entrances are coming from the same places right now,
and are flat instead of on an angle.
Houston's Two Cents: You may have to hand feed motivations and stories to your actors at this point. The rehearsal period is short. You may need to give them a reason for entering, you may need to give them a place they are coming from and a destination for where they are headed. You can ask them what their character thinks of a main character who is speaking. Tell them to listen to the action as if they are hearing it for the first time. Ask them how they would react to things going on. Some of my favorite moments of all the plays at Pennington are the background people making their own story line - so ask your actors to do that - to make their own story - this would be especially important in Lauren's piece, and if Evan ever gets more people for his plane, and if there are any people in Ian's bar. Think of the viewpoints (I'm not joking). Think of the Viewpoint (those of you who had Adv. Drama) called "Topography". You will need to make a visual map in your head of where people are entering and exiting and how they are moving and using the space. Here is a hint that is Basic Drama material -- any intimate (between 2 important characters) scenes really need to take place downstage near the audience. I know that Mr. Harding and I have encouraged you to use all the space/depth of the stage, but you have to be choosy about which conversations take place where. It is theatre, so you can sometimes ignore actual architecture. Like in Evan's show, certain conversations from the back of the plane could perhaps be off to the side, more downstage, isolated in light. As long as you make things like this a convention to your audience, they will believe it is real. Some of this will come with costume and lighting, but you need to manage the movement and blocking onstage. Now that Alia is here to be on book, or work with actors one on one with their lines, you should attend to the entire visual picture and mapping of how people are moving. We'll work on this in class. I'm assuming that Marly's show might fall out of this category, but I'm sure she has some insight into this subject. Mike is the master of this, so his opinion will be quite valid. Andrew Hanks, we can talk about his on Friday during 7th. 6th period, we will attend to this tomorrow (thurs.)
I want each of you to identify one scene that is falling flat in the way Ms. V. describes. We will work on strategies for each of those scenes.
Wed.
This is from Ms. V:
Reminder: Ms. Vander Schaaff needs you to email her the FINAL, CLEAN drafts of your script by this Friday so she can give them to the tech crew. If you've penciled in notes or made ANY changes, make sure you update your typed scripts and update the heading of your scripts (don't have a heading, don't have page numbers? add these. Some of you were missing them in your other drafts and I had asked for them when I described the format months ago--this is very important.)
Also, I will be giving out a handout for tech week. As of now:
Monday, April 21: Kingswood Day: 9-12 noon (bagels and juice to motivate you)
Tuesday, April 22: Tech: 3:15-7 pm (buffet dinner while you rehearse)
Wednesday: Tech/Dress: 3:15-7 pm (buffet again..)
Thursday: Final Dress: 6pm-10 pm
Friday: Opening: 6pm call
Saturday: Close and Strike: 6pm
From Ms. Houston: I have to blog and run right now. I have not read any of your responses from yesterday, but I'm glad to see that more people were on commenting. Eric, I have been warned that I will be mad about your blogs, so please make sure any future blogs are appropriate. Mike is making posters, so if you have any opinions, let him know.
Tickets: We will start taking reservations soon. Any opinions on how to go about doing this - a timeline for cast/crew orders, then general public? Let Houston know so Mike and Matty B. can figure it out.
Logan and Eric will be doing the program, so Logan will need your program information late next week. Think about this and see Houston with questions.
Thanks.
Reminder: Ms. Vander Schaaff needs you to email her the FINAL, CLEAN drafts of your script by this Friday so she can give them to the tech crew. If you've penciled in notes or made ANY changes, make sure you update your typed scripts and update the heading of your scripts (don't have a heading, don't have page numbers? add these. Some of you were missing them in your other drafts and I had asked for them when I described the format months ago--this is very important.)
Also, I will be giving out a handout for tech week. As of now:
Monday, April 21: Kingswood Day: 9-12 noon (bagels and juice to motivate you)
Tuesday, April 22: Tech: 3:15-7 pm (buffet dinner while you rehearse)
Wednesday: Tech/Dress: 3:15-7 pm (buffet again..)
Thursday: Final Dress: 6pm-10 pm
Friday: Opening: 6pm call
Saturday: Close and Strike: 6pm
From Ms. Houston: I have to blog and run right now. I have not read any of your responses from yesterday, but I'm glad to see that more people were on commenting. Eric, I have been warned that I will be mad about your blogs, so please make sure any future blogs are appropriate. Mike is making posters, so if you have any opinions, let him know.
Tickets: We will start taking reservations soon. Any opinions on how to go about doing this - a timeline for cast/crew orders, then general public? Let Houston know so Mike and Matty B. can figure it out.
Logan and Eric will be doing the program, so Logan will need your program information late next week. Think about this and see Houston with questions.
Thanks.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Tuesday
Marly, you are right. It's a Ghost Town. But, the people posting will get personalized commentary and attention from me and valuable points towards their grade in class. Their decision, their loss.
Evan, check the comments from yesterday's Music post. I wrote to you specifically.
We can go over music choices in class today.
Alia Dixon will now be assisting Ms. V and Mr. H. We are naming Greg Stage Manager, so he will be collecting music and Alia will be coaching him on proper SM techniques.
As I said to Evan, the week of off book is the most challenging week. You should not lose focus or motivation, if anything, it should increase. Start each session with a warm up or game. I have some good ideas for you, if you need help. I will work with Evan and whoever else needs attention during 6th period today. I have music ideas, as well.
Evan, check the comments from yesterday's Music post. I wrote to you specifically.
We can go over music choices in class today.
Alia Dixon will now be assisting Ms. V and Mr. H. We are naming Greg Stage Manager, so he will be collecting music and Alia will be coaching him on proper SM techniques.
As I said to Evan, the week of off book is the most challenging week. You should not lose focus or motivation, if anything, it should increase. Start each session with a warm up or game. I have some good ideas for you, if you need help. I will work with Evan and whoever else needs attention during 6th period today. I have music ideas, as well.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Music
The ideal thing would be for a member of tech crew to run sound, however, I am not sure there are enough members to do that, so one or two directors may need to run sound. Mr. Harding would know more about the format (probably CD is best).
WE NEED YOUR TECH FORMS.
Please choose a piece of music that will be the transition into your piece. You may also have music that ends your piece, but it should be brief, so that the audience can hear your show end, and then transition mentally into the next piece by hearing the song chosen by the upcoming director. Any music that takes place over a set change should have movement to it - it should inspire the crew to work quickly, and it should also set the tone for your show.
Marly-
Budget-wise, we are fine with money. Please let me know what you would like to purchase and we can see if it is feasible.
Any shopping lists for props or costumes will need to be in by Friday, April 18th, so I can make purchases in time for Kingswood Day on Monday. I can probably buy things early next week, too, if I have the lists.
Marly's parents are willing to host the seniors involved with this show for a small party after strike on Sat. night. Otherwise, there will be no other school-sanctioned Cast Party. So, let Marly know if you are in for the senior gathering. I would not advertise that to the other kids; let this just be something special to reward all of your hard work.
Matty B. and Mike need to be thinking about posters and advertising. So, if anyone has any ideas, they can pass them along. Once we pick the t-shirt design, maybe that can also be used for the posters. It is also fun to put out teaser posters where you use lines from the various shows on the posters.
WE NEED YOUR TECH FORMS.
Please choose a piece of music that will be the transition into your piece. You may also have music that ends your piece, but it should be brief, so that the audience can hear your show end, and then transition mentally into the next piece by hearing the song chosen by the upcoming director. Any music that takes place over a set change should have movement to it - it should inspire the crew to work quickly, and it should also set the tone for your show.
Marly-
Budget-wise, we are fine with money. Please let me know what you would like to purchase and we can see if it is feasible.
Any shopping lists for props or costumes will need to be in by Friday, April 18th, so I can make purchases in time for Kingswood Day on Monday. I can probably buy things early next week, too, if I have the lists.
Marly's parents are willing to host the seniors involved with this show for a small party after strike on Sat. night. Otherwise, there will be no other school-sanctioned Cast Party. So, let Marly know if you are in for the senior gathering. I would not advertise that to the other kids; let this just be something special to reward all of your hard work.
Matty B. and Mike need to be thinking about posters and advertising. So, if anyone has any ideas, they can pass them along. Once we pick the t-shirt design, maybe that can also be used for the posters. It is also fun to put out teaser posters where you use lines from the various shows on the posters.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Reminders
Directors: Your tech questionnaires are due! They were due today, but you have until Monday to get them into Ms. Houston, Ms. V, or Mr. Harding. WE TECH IN TWO WEEKS - Mr. Harding will be hanging/focusing lights soon and right now, he has no idea what your needs are.
Due to Rob's frequent absences, any director who is not busy would be helpful to the tech crew. Especially when it comes to painting and things that don't involve power tools. Warning: Houston's bitter tone coming right up...I am doubting that things are going to be built in time for tech, so be ready to make adjustments and to simplify your ideas.
Melanie met with James, Lauren, Ian and Andrew. She will need to meet with Evan and Marly early next week. Evan and Marly - it is your responsibility to pin down Mel to meet with her - she is coming to 6th on Tuesday, and maybe she can stay until 7th on Tuesday, as well.
Mel will be pulling clothes from our collection - if you are expecting your cast members to bring in their own clothes, then YOU are responsible for doing the nagging/collecting/hanging. With Melanie also managing baseball, she will only be able to manage the clothing from our collection and make a shopping list so I can purchase anything else.
Hope that is clear.
Due to Rob's frequent absences, any director who is not busy would be helpful to the tech crew. Especially when it comes to painting and things that don't involve power tools. Warning: Houston's bitter tone coming right up...I am doubting that things are going to be built in time for tech, so be ready to make adjustments and to simplify your ideas.
Melanie met with James, Lauren, Ian and Andrew. She will need to meet with Evan and Marly early next week. Evan and Marly - it is your responsibility to pin down Mel to meet with her - she is coming to 6th on Tuesday, and maybe she can stay until 7th on Tuesday, as well.
Mel will be pulling clothes from our collection - if you are expecting your cast members to bring in their own clothes, then YOU are responsible for doing the nagging/collecting/hanging. With Melanie also managing baseball, she will only be able to manage the clothing from our collection and make a shopping list so I can purchase anything else.
Hope that is clear.
Friday!!!!!! April 4
Here is a new question to ponder over the weekend and through Monday.
Also, remember that 6th period had one-page vision papers due today for the monologue project.
Given your experiences on past spring plays, what elements of those experiences do you hope to bring to this year's productions and what do you hope to change or improve upon? ie--what did you like and what did you not like about the process in former years?
Feel free to comment on this as an audience member, actor, or techie. Some of you may have had no exposure to earlier Spring Plays, so you can feel free to comment on how you want it to go for you, how you want people to view your work, etc.
If any of you are struggling with getting your actors to break out of their shells, I found a great game, so you can ask me about it. Have a good weekend.
Also, remember that 6th period had one-page vision papers due today for the monologue project.
Given your experiences on past spring plays, what elements of those experiences do you hope to bring to this year's productions and what do you hope to change or improve upon? ie--what did you like and what did you not like about the process in former years?
Feel free to comment on this as an audience member, actor, or techie. Some of you may have had no exposure to earlier Spring Plays, so you can feel free to comment on how you want it to go for you, how you want people to view your work, etc.
If any of you are struggling with getting your actors to break out of their shells, I found a great game, so you can ask me about it. Have a good weekend.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Thursday, April 3
Thanks for the answers. I would like Evan, James, Andrew to weigh in on the question posed on Wed..
Your tech information forms are due on Friday, April 4th to Ms. Houston. I will then give them to Rob.
If you are planning on being absent from school or rehearsal, please send Ms. Vander Schaaff an email so that she knows you will not be there. You can also send in a task or something for your actors. I don't know who was missing specifically, but as she said, you are not setting a great example by not being there. I know James was not in school.
You missed a day of running lines and Monday is the deadline for being off-book and it is not a joke. You have two weeks before tech week.
Please respond seriously to this request:
What is your favorite warm-up game and why? How does it help an individual actor or a group? Eventually, you will need to be running warm-ups, if you are not already doing so (I would encourage you to do so, but I know time is limited), and I want you all to make a plan of how you are going to run them. Remember the mind, voice, and body all need to be warm.
In our line up, is Joe in the first play on the first night?
Your tech information forms are due on Friday, April 4th to Ms. Houston. I will then give them to Rob.
If you are planning on being absent from school or rehearsal, please send Ms. Vander Schaaff an email so that she knows you will not be there. You can also send in a task or something for your actors. I don't know who was missing specifically, but as she said, you are not setting a great example by not being there. I know James was not in school.
You missed a day of running lines and Monday is the deadline for being off-book and it is not a joke. You have two weeks before tech week.
Please respond seriously to this request:
What is your favorite warm-up game and why? How does it help an individual actor or a group? Eventually, you will need to be running warm-ups, if you are not already doing so (I would encourage you to do so, but I know time is limited), and I want you all to make a plan of how you are going to run them. Remember the mind, voice, and body all need to be warm.
In our line up, is Joe in the first play on the first night?
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Wednesday, April 2
We will finalize the order of Sandwiches (we could call it the menu) once Rob has an excellent idea of scene changes. Thanks, Ian, for your concern for the crew. Always appreciated.
This is a serious question, by the way, and I want responses from everyone:
One thing I would like people to post about (this is coming from Vander Schaaff) is how to get actors to fully understand and feel the lines they are saying instead of just giving them a line reading. In other words, the goal of directing, as we (your teachers) see it, is to have the actors be convincingly emotionally or personally connected to everything they are saying or doing. What are some ways you all have had success in the past with doing this or something you have witnessed another director doing? This will be helpful to all of you and this will be something we work on in class, as well.
Also, if you see Mel, tell her to get blogging. I'll take care of Evan myself.
This is a serious question, by the way, and I want responses from everyone:
One thing I would like people to post about (this is coming from Vander Schaaff) is how to get actors to fully understand and feel the lines they are saying instead of just giving them a line reading. In other words, the goal of directing, as we (your teachers) see it, is to have the actors be convincingly emotionally or personally connected to everything they are saying or doing. What are some ways you all have had success in the past with doing this or something you have witnessed another director doing? This will be helpful to all of you and this will be something we work on in class, as well.
Also, if you see Mel, tell her to get blogging. I'll take care of Evan myself.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Tuesday
The recent conversation on the order of plays is this:
Sandwich A: Peanut Butter and Jelly
Lauren, Ian, Evan
Sandwich B: Pastrami on Rye
James, Marly, Andrew
On the second night, Sandwich B would go first. Thoughts?
Also, Rob needs your prop lists.
There is an attendance folder and attendance information sheets on the bottom shelf in the dressing room. Make sure one of you takes attendance every day and hands out the green sheet.
Sandwich A: Peanut Butter and Jelly
Lauren, Ian, Evan
Sandwich B: Pastrami on Rye
James, Marly, Andrew
On the second night, Sandwich B would go first. Thoughts?
Also, Rob needs your prop lists.
There is an attendance folder and attendance information sheets on the bottom shelf in the dressing room. Make sure one of you takes attendance every day and hands out the green sheet.
Monday, March 31, 2008
The First Official Post of the Blog
Ok Guys. Here is my first official post. Marly pointed out that I am the only one who can post. Therefore, I will try to post everyday and all of you can comment on it. If you have something important to ask everyone to comment on, either I can post it for you, or you can make it clear in your comment that you need an answer/opinion by putting it in italics.
So, my first question is that we should start thinking about an order to the plays. There was talk about putting them into Sandwich A and Sandwich B and then flip-flopping the order on the second night. What does everyone think?
Also, Directors - get your props information into Rob or Ms. Houston pronto.
Melanie - When can you come to rehearsal to meet with directors or actors.
Lauren will be doing an attendance sheet in 6th period tomorrow, so make sure she knows if there are any changes to your casts.
So, my first question is that we should start thinking about an order to the plays. There was talk about putting them into Sandwich A and Sandwich B and then flip-flopping the order on the second night. What does everyone think?
Also, Directors - get your props information into Rob or Ms. Houston pronto.
Melanie - When can you come to rehearsal to meet with directors or actors.
Lauren will be doing an attendance sheet in 6th period tomorrow, so make sure she knows if there are any changes to your casts.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
What the Nut?
Ok. So, maybe the blog isn't such a great idea. But, we're doing it anyway, just to spite Evan.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Welcome to our Inaugural Blog
Hey guys. Rob and I made a blog.
Blog stands for web-log. I learned that yesterday.
Throughout the rest of the Spring Play process, you will be required to blog about your experiences. This will be used as your journal entries for class, but it can also be used to communicate with other directors/production staff. Ms. V and I will be checking this daily.
Blog stands for web-log. I learned that yesterday.
Throughout the rest of the Spring Play process, you will be required to blog about your experiences. This will be used as your journal entries for class, but it can also be used to communicate with other directors/production staff. Ms. V and I will be checking this daily.
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