Notes for SIH Actors
Script-in-Hand Actors perform script-in-hand readings of early draft scripts in front of a live audience. The aim is to help writers hear early drafts of their new scripts spoken by actors for the first time, and to discover what works and what doesn’t. Most readings include some blocking.
The readings usually take place on the fourth Monday of each month, on the stage downstairs at the El Rocco Bar and Restaurant, 154 Brougham Street, Kings Cross starting at 7pm and finishing around 9pm. Everyone pays ten dollars entry at the door which pays for the venue and gets you a free wine, beer or soft drink .
It’s a great opportunity to practice your craft with other seasoned actors, as well as spending an enjoyable evening with other actors, directors, writers, producers, theatre professionals and theatre lovers.
If you’d like to know what the programmes are, and what reading roles are available at each meeting, just subscribe above for the Actors Anonymous eNews, or join the Script-in-Hand Anonymous group on Facebook and receive the details which are sent to all members.
The way it works:
• A director is attached to each script, and they cast the roles.
• The director’s contact details and a description of the roles that need to be filled are sent out to members via the Actors Anonymous e-list and to the Script-in-Hand Facebook group members.
• Actors who are interested in reading a role contact the director. The director will organise a date and time for a short rehearsal/read through and check that you will be available. They may also ask you to email a CV and headshot.
• If you are selected for the role the director will email you a copy of the script. The writer will also supply a hard copy if you require one.
• Familiarise yourself with the script and the role beforehand so that the rehearsal/read through is not inordinately long.
• Rehearsals are usually 2-3 hours and are mostly held at the World Bar, Bayswater Road, Kings Cross. One or two rehearsals may be required depending on the complexity and length the script and number of roles.
• Reading the Note for Writers and the Note for Directors on this site will help fill out the picture for you.
• Turn up on the evening at the appointed time, and whatever you think of the quality of the script, let your professionalism show, and give it your best shot, but more importantly – enjoy yourself. Gerry Greenland.
