Script in hand (SIH) format for rehearsal & performance

So I go to see this event in Chicago this past week-end and I watch 2 groups perform scripts in hand, and while the work was ok the professional production aspects specific to a SIH reading where lacking in a huge way. Different colors of paper, 3 ring notebooks (great for jugglers not for actors) papers held loose without the benefit of a staple, different color hi-lights, different color papers, notes it was all just a mess. Yes, I understand its the struggle for the art and money is tight. Unfortunately these items that everyone takes for granted take away from the struggle of creating and growing a new script. How can you find the truth of the written work in the early stage of development if your not giving the newly written text every chance to have a life that can stand on its own. The work the playwright created must be dare I say respected with clean format and structure. Here are some basics to keep in mind the next time you do any cold reading or script in hand work.

DUMP the 3 ring binders..Why? They are clumsy, distracting for the actor and the audience, they fall more often then you think and when they do papers fly in all directions like a grenade and that explosion of sounds will just take everyone right out of the moment. Not to mention the fact that every time I see a 3 ring in SIH work the side pockets are filled with hand written notes, receipts, and fast food menus! I could go on and on but I think I have made my point. Here are some other things to keep in mind.

Everyone in the cast please please use

1. The same color paper
2. A yellow hi-lighter
3. A stapler to keep the pages stapled together (no paperclips)
4. Number the pages at the center not to the left or right corner.

These are just a couple of tips to keep your focus on your SIH work as your working with a new scipt and the script moves to aspects of rehearsal & performance

More later Keith.