8.4 Running and polishing rehearsals

Rehearsal assessment and refinement are crucial steps in the directing process. Directors evaluate run-throughs, tracking progress in pacing, character development, and overall structure. They provide constructive feedback to actors, focusing on motivation, timing, and performance elevation.

Technical integration and final polishing bring all production elements together. Directors coordinate with technical departments, gradually introducing lighting, sound, and costumes. They conduct work-throughs to address problem areas, refine transitions, and polish performances before dress rehearsals.

Rehearsal Assessment and Refinement

Assessment of run-throughs

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• Evaluate scene-by-scene progress tracking pacing and rhythm, character development arcs, emotional intensity fluctuations
• Analyze overall play structure examining narrative flow, thematic consistency throughout acts, audience engagement potential
• Identify weak points such as clunky transitions between scenes, unclear character motivations, inconsistent energy levels (high-low-high)
• Use a rehearsal log or notes system to track improvements over time, document specific issues for each scene (blocking problems)
• Solicit feedback from trusted observers like assistant directors, dramaturgs, stage managers for fresh perspectives

Notes for performance refinement

• Provide constructive feedback starting with positive observations, be specific about areas for improvement (diction, physicality)
• Address character motivations discussing objectives in each scene, explore subtext and underlying emotions (jealousy, fear)
• Focus on timing and pacing identifying moments that need tightening or expansion, work on cue pickup and dialogue rhythm
• Elevate performances through encouraging physical and vocal variety, suggesting new interpretations of lines or actions
• Use side coaching during run-throughs offering quick adjustments without stopping the scene ("louder", "slower")

Technical Integration and Final Polishing

Integration of production elements

• Coordinate with technical departments scheduling production meetings to discuss integration, communicate director's vision
• Introduce technical elements gradually starting with basic lighting cues, adding sound effects and music, incorporating costumes
• Conduct technical rehearsals focusing on smooth transitions between cues, ensure actors are comfortable with technical elements
• Address timing issues adjusting light or sound cues to match actor movements, modify blocking if necessary (actor crosses earlier)
• Ensure continuity across scenes checking for consistency in costume changes, verify prop placement and handling (coffee cup)

Polishing through work-throughs

• Identify problem areas from previous run-throughs such as scene transitions, difficult blocking sequences, emotionally challenging moments
• Focus on specific scenes or segments running trouble spots multiple times, experiment with alternative approaches (different blocking)
• Refine transitions between scenes practicing set changes, smooth out actor entrances and exits
• Address any remaining character or motivation issues conducting targeted acting exercises, hold one-on-one discussions with actors
• Polish technical elements fine-tuning lighting and sound cues, ensure all props and set pieces are in working order (functional door)
• Run full acts or longer segments to build stamina and continuity, assess overall flow and pacing
• Prepare for dress rehearsals establishing a pre-show routine, review final notes with cast and crew