Notes for SIH Directors
Guide for Directors at Script-in-Hand readings
Thank you for helping bring scripts to life through the mouths of actors. We hope the experience will help you to keep your directing skills sharp.
The scripts performed at our readings are not polished gems, they are works in progress and so by definition are not ready for production. This is an early step in the polishing process.
It is essential that you contact the writer before rehearsal to discuss the script, and have them explain what they are trying to achieve by having the piece read, and what specific feedback they require, if any.
If you or your actors require a hard copy of the script request them from the writer who has been forwarned to provide them if asked.
You must invite the writer to rehearsals as they will then be able to understand what changes the script may need. Remember, changes to a script can only be made with the writer’s consent.
Writers must not interfere with the rehearsal process in any way, and any comment or observation must addressed only to the director, and at a time that does not interrupt the process. There are guidlines for the writer on the Notes for Writers tab. Remember, the writer owns what’s on the page, and you own what’s on the stage.
Your actors, like you, are giving their valuable time to help writers see what works and what doesn’t work in their script, so don’t overstretch the rehearsal time.
You and your actors have already read the scripts before rehearsal, so one rehearsal together will probably be enough to give you all a feel of the characters and make the reading warm one, as opposed to a dead cold read.
Help the actors to work from a single vision and premise.
Our readings are script-in-hand and usually involve some blocking for audience understanding. One or two small props can be used, but no more than can fit into a typical shopping bag. No costume is necessary, but actors will often choose to wear something simple like a hat or a particular colour if it helps the script. However, there are no rules, so play it as you see fit if it helps the script or the actors. The stage lighting is simple and fixed, and there is no technical operator.
Please remind your cast that everyone pays the $10 entry including producers, actors, directors and writers. We are a registered non-profit association managed by unpaid volunteers. The entry fee pays for the venue and helps defray other running costs.
On the night of the reading the MC will announce the name of the writer, the title of the piece and its director.
The director should then inform the audience:
• The genre of the piece;
• Briefly what has happened to this point in the story (if the piece is an excerpt).
• What specific feedback the writer would like, if any (see the Feedback section).
• Introduce the actors and the roles they will read.
• Read the stage directions, or arrange to have someone else read them.
The MC will then thank you and the actors and conduct feedback with the writer, if any.
Script-in-Hand readings have a serious purpose, but we always want them to remain enjoyable and fun. Thanks for being part of it. Gerry Greenland
