This Wednesday is the first cast meeting for common art’s fall play, which I have the honor of co-directing alongside our fabulous playwright, Richard Berman! The plan is to start with a warm-up activity to break the ice and create a comfortable and welcoming meeting environment. Then, Richie will introduce the play by giving a quick overview of the plot and his vision for the performance, which will take place at noon on December 16 in the Parish Hall.

After a read-through of the script, I plan to hold a meeting with any members who want to be a part of the “backstage” aspects of the performance, such as costumes, makeup, and stage design. Many members who did not want to have an acting role expressed a desire to help in other ways. I want this time to be an open conversation, where we can bounce ideas around and see how we can use everyone’s unique skills and strengths to bring this play to life!

As I mentioned last week, this rehearsal will be filmed by two students from Emerson College, who are creating a project surrounding Richie and his plays. I’m interested in seeing how the presence of a camera will affect the rehearsal: whether it will encourage a more professional theater energy or make some members nervous or reserved? Despite my worries, I know that many members are excited about the students coming and hope to see themselves in the finished product.

Although I am not well-versed in drama, I am excited to lead these upcoming rehearsals and to immerse myself in the world of theater. I hope to integrate some drama-therapy tools into these rehearsals by leading some therapeutic acting exercises, which could encourage cast members to engage with their characters, themselves, and those around them. I will keep you all updated on how these rehearsals go!

Thanks for reading!   – Alex Shoemaker