🎬Intro to Stage Directing Unit 11 – Tech and Dress Rehearsals

Key Concepts and Terminology

• Tech rehearsal focuses on integrating technical elements (lighting, sound, set changes) into the production
• Dress rehearsal involves actors performing in full costume, makeup, and with all technical elements in place
• Cue-to-cue (Q2Q) is a method of running through the show, skipping dialogue and focusing on technical cues
  • Allows the technical crew to practice transitions and cue timing
• Paper tech is a meeting where the director, stage manager, and designers review the script and plan out all technical cues
• Dry tech is a rehearsal without actors to test and refine technical elements
• Sitzprobe is a rehearsal where the orchestra and singers rehearse together for the first time
• Spacing rehearsal involves actors practicing on the stage with set pieces to adjust blocking and movement

Planning and Preparation

• Create a detailed schedule for tech and dress rehearsals, allocating sufficient time for each scene and technical element
• Collaborate with the stage manager to establish clear communication channels between the director, actors, and crew
• Conduct a paper tech meeting to review the script and plan out all technical cues
  • Involves the director, stage manager, and designers
  • Ensures everyone is on the same page regarding the vision and execution of technical elements
• Prioritize scenes or moments that require complex technical coordination for additional rehearsal time
• Ensure all necessary props, costumes, and set pieces are available and in good condition prior to rehearsals
• Communicate expectations and goals clearly to the cast and crew to maintain a focused and productive atmosphere
• Develop contingency plans for potential technical issues or actor absences to minimize disruptions

Tech Rehearsal Basics

• Begin with a cue-to-cue (Q2Q) rehearsal to focus on integrating technical elements
  • Skip dialogue and focus on transitioning between cues
  • Allows the crew to practice timing and execution of lighting, sound, and set changes
• Work through the show in chronological order, stopping to adjust and refine technical elements as needed
• Ensure smooth transitions between scenes by practicing set changes, lighting shifts, and sound cues
• Allow time for the actors to become familiar with the technical elements and how they affect their performances
  • Adjust blocking or timing as necessary to accommodate technical cues
• Maintain open communication between the director, stage manager, and technical crew to address any issues or concerns
• Take detailed notes throughout the tech rehearsal process to track progress and identify areas for improvement

Dress Rehearsal Essentials

• Actors perform in full costume, makeup, and with all technical elements in place
• Treat the dress rehearsal as a simulation of an actual performance
  • Minimize interruptions and run the show from beginning to end
  • Encourage actors to maintain character and energy throughout
• Evaluate the overall flow and pacing of the production
  • Make note of any pacing issues or moments that require adjustment
• Assess the effectiveness of costumes, makeup, and hair in creating the desired character appearances
• Ensure all costume changes and quick changes are smooth and well-coordinated
• Provide notes and feedback to actors and crew after the dress rehearsal to refine performances and technical execution

Coordinating Technical Elements

• Lighting
  • Work with the lighting designer to create the desired mood, atmosphere, and focus for each scene
  • Ensure lighting cues are timed correctly and transitions are smooth
  • Adjust lighting levels and colors as needed to enhance the overall visual impact
• Sound
  • Collaborate with the sound designer to establish the soundscape of the production
  • Ensure sound effects and music cues are triggered accurately and at the appropriate volume levels
  • Coordinate the use of microphones for actors, if applicable
• Set and Props
  • Work with the set designer and props master to ensure all set pieces and props are functional and in the correct positions
  • Practice set changes and transitions to minimize delays and disruptions
  • Verify that actors are comfortable with handling props and interacting with the set

Managing Actors and Crew

• Foster a positive and collaborative atmosphere during tech and dress rehearsals
• Provide clear and concise feedback to actors regarding their performances
  • Offer specific guidance on line delivery, blocking, and character development
  • Encourage actors to take risks and make bold choices within the framework of the production
• Communicate with the stage manager to ensure crew members are fulfilling their responsibilities effectively
• Address any conflicts or issues that arise promptly and professionally
  • Work with individuals to find solutions and maintain a productive working environment
• Recognize and praise the efforts of the cast and crew to maintain morale and motivation
• Lead by example, maintaining a calm and focused demeanor throughout the rehearsal process

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Technical malfunctions
  • Develop contingency plans for potential technical issues (lighting, sound, set)
  • Work with the technical crew to quickly diagnose and resolve problems
  • Adapt the rehearsal schedule or focus as needed to accommodate repairs or adjustments
• Missed cues or timing issues
  • Identify the cause of the missed cue (actor, crew member, or technical issue)
  • Provide clear feedback and guidance to prevent future occurrences
  • Practice problematic cues or transitions until they are executed smoothly
• Costume or prop malfunctions
  • Have understudies or backup costumes and props available
  • Work with the costume and props teams to make quick repairs or adjustments
  • Modify blocking or staging as necessary to accommodate any changes
• Actor absence or illness
  • Have understudies prepared to step in if needed
  • Adjust the rehearsal schedule or focus to prioritize scenes not involving the absent actor
  • Work with the actor to catch up on missed material and integrate them back into the production

Final Touches and Performance Readiness

• Schedule a final dress rehearsal to simulate the complete performance experience
  • Invite a small audience to provide authentic reactions and energy
  • Evaluate the overall impact and effectiveness of the production
• Make final adjustments to technical elements, blocking, and performances based on notes from the final dress rehearsal
• Conduct a pre-show meeting with the cast and crew to review any last-minute changes or notes
  • Reinforce the importance of maintaining focus, energy, and professionalism throughout the performance run
• Encourage the cast and crew to take care of their physical and mental well-being leading up to opening night
  • Promote proper rest, nutrition, and stress management techniques
• Celebrate the hard work and dedication of the entire team
  • Foster a sense of unity and shared accomplishment as the production moves into the performance phase
• Remain available and supportive throughout the performance run to address any issues or concerns that may arise