Entry Ten - Let's Try That Again!

It’s the week of the performance, and we had three hours to set up, get everyone into costume, run a fight call and then perform a full run of the play. Our previous full run of the play would never have fit within this time-frame, not to mention all of the other factors that needed to be sorted out. This time however, we not only had time for a full run, but we had time to spare afterwards!

This session was carried out in a neighbouring studio to the one where we’ll be performing, and it is the same size, which gave us a much clearer idea of what the real performance space will be like. We set up a row of chairs indicating where the audience will be, and were able to make entrances and exits in the actual backstage areas. This is still a bit of an issue, as the backstage areas need to accommodate a lot of props and set, but also need to be maneuverable enough to allow for costume changes (very quick ones in some instances). It will be possible, but everything is a bit squashed right now.

The run-through was much pacier, and significantly more focussed than it had been previously. Transitions from one scene into the next had a much more smooth flow to them, and the cast seemed more confident and at ease. As a result the story and the characters were really able to shine through a lot more. That is not to say there aren’t areas that couldn’t be improved upon. We still need to add in the technical factors, specifically lighting changes. There are also a few things that still need to be added in. This run-through was conducted without the Wardrobe or the lamppost, but we are all aware of where they will be placed.

I also think that the performance is now at a decent standard, but it can most certainly be pushed even further. I think worrying about running time and technical issues may have been a big distraction, but this run-through will hopefully rid us of those concerns and allow us all to focus more clearly on our characters and their roles within the narrative.

The running time of this performance was just under 90 minutes – a certifiable triumph! It is worth noting that this is more than an hour less than our previous run through! I had been feeling worried about the running time after the first full run that we did, but it was a necessary evil in many ways, because it gave everyone the drive and determination to put things right. We will have another full run before the actual performance, and also a tech run on the day – but right now I am feeling very excited. We have time to make it even better before we perform to an audience.

Quote of the day: “That’s the last time I go to Minions-R-Us, it’s Minions.co.uk from now on!” Emily Carding (The White Witch considers the need for new – and more efficient – personnel!)