January 7, 2015

January 7, 2015

Everyone	Remember that it is the first week.  I know you are feeling frustrated and I am too, but you have to remember that we have until March.  The first few weeks always feel like this. NO ACCENTS.  JUST READ THE LINES WITH YOUR TEXAS VOICE. An “Over The Top” accent will hurt us. ENUNCIATE – It took me a few days to mark all the consonants and underline the verbs.  I did not do it to give my fingers exercise.   When you are studying the script, make the most of those lines. With the exception of Jack, no one likes Willy.  Jack doesn’t know if he likes Willy or not, but he thinks it’s strange that the town would not accept a low bid. Walk and gesture like your character. LISTEN.  How would your character react to the lines spoken? You have to listen to everything going on stage. Pages 1-20 memorized by Thursday night.  The rest on Monday. People noises. On Thursday night, you will begin to write your personal goal for each rehearsal. In the men’s group –each time “Willie Stark’s name” comes up, disgust must be in your voices, your body and your faces.  REACT. I’ll get the real script. We need to fix the semicircle in the third scene. NO ACCENTS – just read the lines. Couch – look at the script for introductions. There was no emotion.  These people think they are right. Gestures above the waist and vary gestures. Look at any of the movies to see how all the characters are portrayed. When not speaking, look at the action and who is talking.  Think about what you think about what is being said and express that to the audience.
Men	You have to feel natural together.  When you are in the halls at school, you are acting naturally – bring that to the stage. As Jack is crossing from the editor’s scene, men need to be crossing to that area.  Where have you been and where will you go?  This area is just a stopping place for some.  They see someone they know, and they stop to chat.  Some need to walk in from backstage. Everyone hates Willie. You are talking politics.  Be matter of fact.  When Jack enters, react to his presence, observe.  We have to see you decide to talk to him and to decide what to say.
Dolph	Be confident – assertive – you have been the head of this little fiefdom and don’t realize that in the scheme of things that you are insignificant. Attack Jack.  He is trying to take your place as the big guy in town. Eggs actly – look at friends for confirmation.
Sheriff	Show that you do not like Willy.
Jack	Watch some news casts with reporters at the scene interviewing people.  You are trying to “get” a story through any means. Slower and enunciate I..uh hear tell – this is not normal for you, feel awkward. Emphasize “TRUTH”  You are insinuating that they do not want the truth revealed. Watch turning your back.  We may need to position you in a different way. Look at the lines and read them with the letters and words stressed.  Your lines need to vary.  Practice reading them.  The // means to change tone.
Local 3	It’s trough not through like a pig’s trough.  Know you just got the part today.