As the last week of this term approaches Hannah Brown a member of our technical team had the chance to interview our very own Mrs Noon - The director of the school production this year. She asked her some very challenging but insightful questions:
Q1) What stood out for you to pick certain people for certain points?
I was looking for evidence of stage presence and a confident performer with audience awareness and an ability to use characterisation skills to communicate a successful role and meaning to n audience.
Q2) What do you look for in a good actor/actress?
Someone who is well prepared, who learns lines fast in order to experiment with their physicality without being restricted by holding their script. Someone who is proactive in rehearsals and has their own ideas for the scene and characters. Basically they have done their research.
Q3) How does a performance run smoothly and successfully?
It is vital that all cast attend rehearsals and are committed to the show. The technical and backstage crew are crucial in allowing a smooth run of the show. Actors don't panic, are prepared and give it their all! Many many hours of planning from the creative director too!!
Q4) What goes on behind the scenes for a director?
The first approach is reading the play at least once, making detailed notes and writing key questions I know I will have to answer such as "How will I make Scrooge fly?" Meetings with the crew, the choreographers. Detailed understanding of character, plot and structure of play. You must be very organised!
Q5)What does a director actually do?
- Has the vision for the play(everything you see & hear)
- Makes casting decisions - decides the audition
- Rehearsal schedule - makes sure there is time to rehearse everything!
- Runs all rehearsals
- Meets with costume, set, props designers
- Liases with stage manager
Q6) What does a good rehearsal look like?
It starts on time, everyone is there and well prepared -lines have been learnt. There are many lightbulb moments with cast and director! It is productive, key questions are explored, problems solved and ultimately a creative, emotive, thought provoking scene as a result.
Q7) What is the best and worst part about being a director?
The best part is being creative, having the freedom to see your ideas come to reality. The worst part is the stress of working under strict time constaints and worrying that the show wont be ready in time! It is very disappointing when actors let you down or don't commit too.
My World Real Life Link: I specialised in directing in my final year of university where I achieved first for my module. I directed a short film that was screened at a local cinema near Loughborough University.
My World Real Life Link: I specialised in directing in my final year of university where I achieved first for my module. I directed a short film that was screened at a local cinema near Loughborough University.
Thank you Mrs Noon :)
