A successful weekend down and one more to go. We played to one Sold Out and two nearly Sold Out houses... three different, but exceptionally appreciative audiences. Audience member, Joey Ahern, has given us his honest review of the performance in his blog.
I could be critical of each of the performances...little, annoying bits which the actors never fixed or changed...pacing that was slightly 'off' here and there... but, of course, I am a perfectionist. True, there are issues I would change, but, I have to face reality and remember I am working in a tiny theatre, with limited resources and a cast with varying abilities and experience. That is what I love about this show... the complete spectrum of all the artistic aspects this production covers.
Friday's performance will feature our Understudies in the principal roles. Of course, understudy performances always scare me... no they are not as rehearsed and all of them are of the less experienced portion of the cast, but they will indeed give you a good, if not different performance.
One of the understudies, Jon Dowler, takes on the role of Claudio. His stage experience is limited to his normal role of Watch #1 (which will be taken on by principal actor, Jared Mola in the understudy performance) and Ensemble in my last show, A MIDSUMMER NIGHT's DREAM. Jon has been working very hard to build his performance, and I am sure will do well.
Also part of the understudy team, Jon Hung (Watch) takes on the role of Benedick in the US performance and Michelle Graham (normally in the role of Conrade) will do Beatrice. Jon has really taken his position of an understudy seriously and has worked hard to prep for Friday, while Michelle has actually played the role of Beatrice in a previous production of MUCH ADO.
Katie Paeg (normally Watch #3), will take on Hero in Friday's performance. Should be an interesting little performance and an even more interesting weekend of performances, so don't miss this!
Performances are underway and tickets can be purchased online. Now, you might also want to take a look at the early promo for the show, created by Anthony Chiles...
We opened to a raucously appreciative Sold Out crowd last night! Due to my extreme Bipolar and OCD perfectionism, I am rarely happy with the final product... but, last night's performance (with only one scene problem) surprised and pleased even me.
The cast was on point through out most of the show, and finally some of the long standing notes and directorial comments were put into play, so things smoothed out into a nice, neat and fun little performance package
I have to admit, this has been a hard production journey for me to complete. I was faced with numerous challenges from the start -- most concerning company issues like a VERY small budget and some inadequate 'help' from one of the company provided personnel. In fact, because of this and in an effort to save money, most of the set pieces have been 'borrowed' from MIDSUMMER (except for the... uhm... 'fountain')
Of course, we had one problematic actor (not even a principal), who caused complaint and concern from every corner of the cast, so replacing him rather than bowing to his ultimatums and failing attempts to direct my show from his perspective, was an easy choice.
Also, coming directly from another (overlapping) show, having only 5 and a half weeks of formal work rehearsals -- all of which were plagued by numerous actor conflicts & absences -- and healing a broken foot, had to have something to do with why this journey was so exhaustive for me.
I have to admit, I wasn't sure if my vision and concept could be realized at the end of it all. I don't think I have questioned or feared the outcome of a show since... well, since some of the nightmare shows with my own company, namely Sleeping Beauty, As You Like It and the evil Rabbit show we did at one point. But, this one exhausted and stressed me.
I always KNOW it will be alright in the end, constantly tell my
cast to trust me (and most of them truly do) and can see the final
'painting', but this show... Uhm, no. One minute the vision was there, the next it was a little cloudy.
However, starting at rehearsal 2 weeks
ago, something changed... The cast seemed lighter emotionally, less
inhibited, more relaxed and it all began to fall together one piece at a
time.
Every rehearsal saw massive changes to tiny moments and
sections. Even my flow and artistic view was less stifled and much more
receptive to the new ideas which were randomly popping into my head...
The cast is packed with actors, many who have never done Shakespeare before, a few who have a resume packed with it, some who have never worked with a demanding, perfectionist, detail oriented director like myself before, but all who appreciate the ensemble and protective bond they have created. They are all truly an ensemble group, who work together as an unbreakable team.
Though, there are still a few sections and moments that could have
benefited with another week of focused clean up, this piece of Shakespearian art has
been 'painted'... with just a few little endearing quirks to make it
'special.' And, for what my cast gave me last night, I shall always be
grateful.
I have never faced so many administrative (and venue /
technical) challenges on a show before, but with all the issues
working in this space and with this company entails, I am delighted with
what my cast and production team have given me. They have pulled something unique out of
this show and have truly given us a sparkling little production.
Now for a little look at what happens in our world of Much Ado...
Hero and Claudio, with Beatrice at the masked ball
The 'Schoolgirl' Watch take note of some villainy
Beatrice and Benedick in the 'church' scene
Claudio gets a 'talking to' from Antonia and Leonata
Don Pedro examines Benedick, as he talks of his ills
Hero and Claudio seal their devotion to each other
Principal Cast includes (Top to bottom) Juliet Howard-Welch as Beatrice, Josh Katawick as Benedick, Jared Mola as Claudio, Elizabeth Dillard as Hero and Tony Copper as Don Pedro.
I realize it has been quite a while since my last post, but the actual task of directing the show has had me a little busy...
In addition to directing, the company has me performing a series of other paperwork and company tasks that are creeping up on me, while overwhelming the process. While this show has been far more draining than I expected, we are well underway and move into partial runs next week. Some scenes are flying along beautifully, while others are causing quizzical looks on my face and holes in my brain on a daily basis. But, past experience reminds me that every show is different and challenges me in varying ways... and that it will all find it's feet eventually... perhaps, in a new way, so I know I have to be open and trust the new process I have to devise to resolve the challenges of this show. One day, I will use it on another production.
It is time to start developing the interlude scenes and add the music
to the show, as well as dealing with those naughty problem scenes that
are causing many a sleepless night (or high school related
nightmares...) so that is what we will be working on through this
week.
Much needs to be done and my focus will be on that. The group scenes are my main concern, as they contain people who have been to rehearsal so irregularly.
We are also still reveling in the 1920's setting and exploring the many changes that occurred in the world at that time. The Titanic already sank 9 years earlier, women are making great headway in the world, skirts are rising, music is becoming a little more upbeat, if not risque at times, and women are really starting to come into their own. Though the first world war is over, the Irish rebellion is gaining steam and starting to create warlike symptoms around the British Isles. What an exciting and scary time to live....
Of course, we have had our share of drama... but, we have had more than
our share of fun and amusement as the scenes are being developed and
begin to grow. Some scenes are stronger than others, with the group
scenes needing the most work. On the other hand, If I could remind one
or two members my cast of one thing, it would be to trust that the
vision will come together, but only if the few quit trying to change,
question and alter every aspect of concept that is given to you. If
there are too many unimportant ideas thrown into the mix, the important
things get lost. We do not want that. I won't allow that.
Shakespeare is universal and can be done in many settings and time
periods... not just the one you have in mind. I also want to remind
everyone not to overthink the tasks given to
you... these processes have been done scores of times before and do not
require the drama or excuses given to make it more difficult than it
actually is. I do love working in the educational and professional theatre arena, but
this regional theatre thing is still somewhat new to me. Now... Cast and Creative Headshots will be posted soon ... In the meantime, head over to facebook and LIKE the MUCH ADO Facebook Page for more immediate information and details on the show.
Incidentally, all photos shown in this blog have been taken by Lisa Bernheim, who is playing Margaret and is also my Student Director.
Readthrough down and character work begins tonight. Was difficult to let go of the previous show and move on to the next, but 'needs must'... so on we go.
I have a solid and talented cast and look forward to working with them, getting to know them and sharing this beautiful text with them!
Have numerous plans for this piece... away from the fast paced, sometimes cartoon portrayals in Midsummer... and on to a little more realistic, yet sophisticated humor. My set will be representational and have it's own water feature and sculptures!
The cast is confirmed, the paperwork and scripts are ready... All that is left to do now is get into rehearsal...
SCRIPT PICK - UP
Scripts will be available for pick up at the Theater from Thursday April 12, during normal store opening times. Also on this day, you will be sent, via e-mail, the following:
Contact List
Working Rehearsal Schedule (subject to adjustment)
Casting Agreement, to be signed and given to Lisa on the first rehearsal
Please print out each of these items for your information. The casting agreement must be completed and brought to the first rehearsal.
-Those who who have been cast from out of town, will have all these documents sent electronically after April 12.
-Those in the cast of MIDSUMMER will have scripts signed out to them the week of April 2.
FIRST REHEARSALS
The first Table Read will be held on Monday, April 16 at 7pm at the theater. Ensemble members are not required to attend.
Character rehearsals for Beatrice, Benedick, Claudio, Don Pedro, Understudies, Hero, Don John and Dogberry will begin on Wednesday, April 18 at 7pm.
PRODUCTION TEAM
Lisa Howard-Welch, Director Kelly Bennington, Assistant Director Susan Robert, Costume Designer Lisa Bernheim, Student Director / Company Photographer Juliet Howard-Welch, Production Stage Manager Jacinda Bridger, Assistant Stage Manager Patrick Taylor, Assistant Stage Manager Prop Mistress, Lynn Brown
CAST
Don Pedro - Tony Copper
Benedick - Josh Katawick
Benedick U/S & Ensemble - Jon Hung
Claudio - Jared Mola
Claudio U/S & Ensemble - Jon Dowler
Leonato - John Bukowski
Antonia - Cher Collins
Dogberry - Kathleen Day
Verges - James Michael Fazio
Beatrice/ PSM - Juliet Howard-Welch
Hero - Elizabeth Dillard
Hero U/S - Katie Paeg
Don John - Austin Smith
Conrade - Michelle Graham
Borachio - John Fredland
Ursula - Ofaname Eguaroje
Margaret / Photographer / Student Director- Lisa Bernheim
Balthasar/ ASM - Jacinda Bridger
Friar - Nathan Hudson
Sexton/ Media - Anthony Chiles
Messenger/ ASM - Patrick Taylor
Ensemble -Quillin Stocker
Ensemble - Danielle Schroeder
I still have yet to receive the following from some of the actors:
Confirm the following contact information: E-mail address, phone number (does your phone accept texts)
Attach a head shot or head and shoulders photo (jpg), if not already provided
Write a bio (500 words or less) detailing your past experience, training, hobbies, anything else you like.
The above information is due no later than Monday, April 9.
What an overwhelming turnout for auditions on Monday and Tuesday. We had so many talented people come, that we were not able to cast everyone. Some of the decisions were very difficult, but I think we have come up with an amazing cast, who will work together beautifully. Stage chemistry shall be amazing in this show!
Because so many people are anxious to hear, this will be a brief post, with only the cast list... For both Principal and Ensemble cast. Script Pick-Up and first rehearsal information will follow in a post over the weekend.
Now, with no further 'ADO'...
PRINCIPAL CAST
Don Pedro - Tony Copper
Benedick - Josh Katawick
Claudio - Jared Mola
Leonato - John Bukowski
Antonia - Cher Collins
Dogberry - Kathleen Day
Beatrice - Juliet Howard-Welch
Hero - Elizabeth Dillard
FEATURED CAST
Don John - Austin Smith
Conrade - Michelle Graham
Borachio - John Fredland
Verges - James Michael Fazio
Ursula - Ofaname Eguaroje
Margaret - Lisa Bernheim
Balthasar - Jacinda Bridger
Friar - Nathan Hudson
Sexton - Anthony Chiles
Messenger - Patrick Taylor
Hero U/S - Katie Paeg
Claudio U/S - Jon Dowler
Benedick U/S - John Hung
ENSEMBLE CAST
John Hung
Jon Dowler
Katie Paeg
Patrick Taylor
Olivia Hampton
Quillin Stocker
Danielle Schroeder
ALL ACTORS must accept or decline their role not later than 9pm, Saturday March 31, by e-mailing the director. Ensemble actors will be assigned roles throughout the show, such as WATCH, BOY, and others. They will also be utilized in other ways during the production. These decisions will be made before blocking begins.
When you respond, please do the following:
Whether or not you accept your role
Confirm the following contact information: E-mail address, phone number (does your phone accept texts)
Attach a head shot or head and shoulders photo (jpg), if not already provided
Write a bio (500 words or less) detailing your past experience, training, hobbies, anything else you like.
We are looking forward to an amazing show, so look for the followup post this weekend!!
Before we begin exploring the complexities of one of Shakespeare's later comedies, we must take on the process of auditioning actors for MUCH ADO ABOUT
NOTHING. While, somewhat tedious, auditions are one of
my favorite aspects of the production process. The concept and visual pictures I have been putting together for months, can now start to come to life.
Over the next few weeks, many of you will come to know MUCH ADO's characters quite intimately. Of course, many actors and actresses will come in wanting one of the two most challenging, yet satisfying characters in all of Shakespeare (Beatrice and Benedick), but don't cut off your opportunities too quickly. Many of the male characters will likely be converted to female and some of the other male characters are great challenges in their own right. So many of Shakespeare's characters offer such fun and exhilarating development opportunities and if you truly want to do the show, you might not want to pass those up. This is a show that will offer actors much to do and enjoy while becoming part of it! For those who are unfamiliar with my plans for the characters, take a look:
PRINCIPAL CHARACTERS
Principal Cast will go into
rehearsal the week of April 16.
Don Pedro - M - 30’s to 40’s
Beatrice - F
- Early 30’s
Benedick - M - 30’s to 40’s
Hero - F
- Late Teens to mid 20’s
Claudio - M - 20’s
Leonato / a - M/F – 40’s to 60’s
Antonio/a - M/F – 40’s to 50’s
Dogberry - F – 30’s to 50’s
Male and Female
Understudy - We are casting one female and one
male understudy to cover the principal roles.
FEATURED CHARACTERS
Featured Cast will go into
rehearsal in May. They will not be
called to all rehearsals
Don John - M
– 20’s to 30’s
Conrade - M – 20’s to 30’s
Borachio - M – 20’s to 30’s
Verges - M/F
– 20’s +
Ursula -F – 20’s to 30’s
Margaret - F - 20’s
Ensemble Characters
Ensemble Cast will go into
rehearsal in May. They will not be
called to all rehearsals
Friar Francis - M/F –30’s+
Balthasar - M/F – Teen
to 30’s
Sexton - M/F – 20’s +
Messenger - M/F – Teen to 30’s
Watch - F – Late teens to 20’s
Musician and
Singer - We are looking for at least one accomplished musician
and / or singer to perform during most of the show.
During this production period, we will be discovering as much as we can about the 1920 - 1924 time period... through costume and props, research and activities that help us find the characters and atmosphere we all want to convey to our audience.
While, I am lucky enough to be able to secure the talents of Kelly Bennington, a wonderfully organized Assistant Director; Juliet Howard-Welch, a professional Stage Manager (New Orleans Shakespeare Festival / Dayton Opera --- and Equity Membership Candidate); and Susan Robert, my highly detail oriented costumer and a director in her own right... I do not have the luxury of the highly talented Set Designer I was blessed with for my last two shows (Geoffrey Moss), but never fear, I have a few ideas of my own and hopefully we shall muddle through.
With auditions just one week away, I am receiving many nervous questions from first time Shakespeare performers, as well as seasoned actors.... Just remember, give your first and best audition. I will always give you the opportunity to start again, if you need to and I am looking for what YOU can bring to the role -- not how Emma Thompson or Kenneth Branagh played them. Strong, articulate voices, creative readings and a fun personality. Be sure to visit the audition event page, check out earlier blogs or e-mail me with questions. You can also request a pdf version of the audition form here. Bring yourself!
As auditions are fast approaching, I am really beginning to explore the many facets of our upcoming production of MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING.
The script has been cut and finalized with the help of Josh Katawick; Costumes are being researched and ideas developed by costumer Susan Robert; Production meetings begin this week to establish set parameters and budget; And, I have been tucking into a huge amount of research about the period and play. Director's and SM meetings will also begin soon.
Though I have directed this show previously, I am focused on making this a very different production... One with some fresh ideas and a slightly 'off-kilter' look at the play. Many surprises are in store for those who are cast.
Now to address some of the questions that have been posed regarding auditions:
WHAT KIND OF AUDITION IS EXPECTED-- The auditions for MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING will be very similar to other auditions I have held. Small groups of 10 to 12 will be asked to enter the theatre at a time. You will do your monologue and then read from a scene or two. Some will be asked to read again or perhaps be asked to attend call backs on Tuesday, March 27 at 8pm. If more than one group session is needed, some auditionees may be asked to remain for multiple sessions. Give your strongest audition the first time you read, so that I get the best and strongest picture of you.
WHAT KIND OF MONOLOGUE SHOULD I PREPARE -- Any Shakespeare piece of 10 to 25 lines. Please memorize. You will not be turned away for not having a piece, but it is highly recommended.
WHAT IS THE SETTING -- Early 1920's, post WWI, around the time of the Irish Rebellion. Set in an English Country house.
WILL YOU WANT A BRITISH ACCENT -- NO!
Watch out for character posts coming the week of 16 March and keep your questions and resumes coming to Lisalhw@att.net!If you would like a copy of the Audition form via e-mail, please just ask.
Am already getting lots of questions about this production, my audition process, the style and period... I am so pleased to see many, many people all ready to head into these auditions!
Since we still have 8 weeks until auditions, I won't be tackling too many blog posts straight away... I am just now casting another show, and that show will require my undivided attention for the next couple of weeks so you shouldn't expect to see regular weekly posts until at least the middle of February; however, once these posts start, you will hear all about our concept, the characters, how the audition process will go and many other useful tips and ideas.
In the meantime, I am more than happy to answer specific questions, receive early resumes and photos and offer general advice through My facebook or by e-mail. Just drop me a note and I will get back to you as soon as I can! You can also start thinking about a few things that will figure into our show --- somewhere!
CLUES TO CONSIDER
If you are a Dr. Who fan, be sure to go back to the 4th series (10th Doctor with Donna) and have a look at the Agatha Christie episode.
Spend a Sunday evening catching up with Downton Abbey
What do you know about the history of the Girl Guides (or as we know them in the USA, the Girl Scouts)
Welcome to the MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Director's Blog, an information source for all those interested in auditioning for X*ACT's upcoming production of Much Ado, those who are cast and just anyone wishing to follow along with our process.
Within the next few weeks, I will begin to post about the upcoming auditions, what to expect and what I am looking for. I encourage anyone interested in auditioning to contact me directly to acquire an audition form or just ask questions.
Auditions are just 9 weeks away and there is much to do and post before casting can begin! Now, to get us started, below are some audition specific particulars and already published information.
Much Ado About Nothing
by William Shakespeare
Production to be directed by Lisa Howard-Welch.
WHEN:
Monday, March 26, 2012 7 to 10pm
Tuesday, March 27, 2012 7 to 8pm
Callbacks: The March 27th session will also accommodate Callbacks from 8pm to 11pm
Important - Audition candidates attending the March 26 session, should NOT plan
to attend the March 27 session, unless asked to attend Callbacks. Limited space is available if candidates need an earlier audition time/date
PRODUCTION DATES: June 15, 16, 17, 22. 23 & 24, 2012
WHAT TO BRING:
Resume and photo (if you have one), or list of past theatrical education and experience
Complete list of rehearsal conflicts for the period beginning April 2
through June 24, 2012. Internal Rehearsal schedule will be created
according to the conflicts given at auditions.
WHAT TO PREPARE:
Auditions will be memorized monologue and cold reading from the script in a small group format
Memorized monologue (10 lines minimum / 25 maximum) from any
Shakespearean play (you will not be turned away if you do not have a
monologue, but this is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
If you sing, please bring any prepared (non-accompanied) vocal piece
ALSO CONSIDERING RESUMES FOR THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTION POSITIONS:
Assistant Stage Manager / Rehearsal Stage Manager
Student Director (aged 15 to 21)
Choreographer
Costumer
Please E-Mail Me for more information, or to enter your resume for consideration
ROLES AVAILABLE:
Ages listed are desired playing age only, not required age. Some roles normally played by men are likely to be changed to Women's roles
Don Pedro (M - 25 to 50's) Don John (M - 25 to 40's)
Benedick (M - 30's to 40's) Claudio (M - 20 - 30)
Friar Francis (M - 30+) Conrade (M - 25+) Borachio (M - 25+) Antonio (M - 40's+) Leonato (M or F - 35+)
Dogberry (M or F - 25- 50+) Verges (M or F - any age)
Sexton (M or F - 30's+)
Beatrice (F - 28 to 30's) Hero (F - 17 - 20's) Ursula (F - 20+) Margaret (F - 17 to 20's) Balthasar (M or F any age) Ensemble (M AND F - all ages 12- 60's) - Up to 6 additional actors needed for street scenes, 4 teens (ages 9
to 16) Understudies (1 female and 1 male) , and other featured
characters will be cast.
Over the next several weeks, I will be posting about setting, period, required actor technique and experience, character information and much, much more!
In the meantime, if you are looking for a show to become a part of, please follow the Director's Blog for a show I am casting on January 30 & 31 -- A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM, produced by Springfield StageWorks.
