Page To Stage Process Analysis

The process of putting together a theatre production from “page to stage” is an extensive undertaking, which requires time, energy, and resources at every step. First of all, the process will start with the dramagurge whose task it is to seek out a script or playwright (this may take several months or even years). Once the dramaturge’s suggested script is accepted by a producer (or theatre company), he/she (the producer) must begin to consider various questions: Who is going to create this show( directors, designers, ect.)? Where will it be performed? What type of theatre space do we want it in? How many seats do we need (i.e., is the performance going to be intimate or extravagent)? Who will come see this show (i.e., what is the demographic …show more content…
How talented is the casting pool? What is the budget? How much can we pay the actors, director, and designers? Does the threatre space need renovations? What should the message/spine of the play be? How should we market the show? How many performances should we give? What time of day should we offer the performances? After all of these questions have been adressed, the producer will start to assemble the team that he/she wants to create the show (generally 9-12 months before the show). The first step in this process is hiering a director. Because this individual is involved in almost all facets of the production, it is essential that he/she has a personality and style that fits with the goals and principles of the theatre company. Additionally, the artistic director will perform the administrative role of making sure that the show fits into the general style and feel of the theatre company (This individual is more involved with the theatre staff than the actual people creating the show). Another essential hier is the stage manager who …show more content…
This will be the first time that the actors will be working with all of the tech elements in place. Although the director will still be concerned with blocking, pace, and the quality of acting, the tech rehersal is primarily a time to verify sound and lighting cues, make sure that all costumes fit, and inspect the quality and safety of the set. After tech rehersals, the entire production comes together for a dress rehersal, which is basically an runthrough of the show as it will be performed for the audience. This is a chance to see how it looks all together and make minor alterations where necessary. Subsequently, there are usually 1-3 preview shows prior to opening night. At these performances, a select number of people are invited and the director/actors are able to gage how audiences respond to elements of the show and what potential changes might need to be made. Finally, the show opens in earnest and it will run for a certain number of performances (as long as it is making money). Once the producer feels that it is time for the show to close, there is an extensvie process of getting rid of everything called striking the show. Ultimately, there are many steps that must be taken to advance a production from “page to stage.” Everyone involved in this process (from the producer to the wig intern) plays an important role in advancing the show forward