So, it has begun. Last night was our first read-thru! It was a true pleasure to meet new folks and familiarize myself with this theatre. I haven't worked in this particular venue as of yet and have heard great things about it from actors who have. I can see that everyone: the producers, the director, the stage managers, the set designer and builders, the costumer...all the way down to the actors working on this project will give this production 100%. All the plans are well laid, and this is a good thing. I have worked in some theatre where I found myself acting around drying stage paint during opening nights, and I'd rather not be in a situation like that playing Blanche. No, this is certainly not going to be a production like Spiderman, the Musical. Phew.
As predicted, the coffee was on the burner. I just love that all theatres do this. It is a natural and necessary element of rehearsal.
We then introduced ourselves and received our director's vision. I have to say that I already feel comfortable and safe under this director. He understands Tennessee Williams, his life, and the metaphors that are reflected in Streetcar. Our director envisions the experience of the play, I believe, true to Mr. Williams' intentions. Intimate. Raw. Honest.
Just so you know, in addition to his plays, Tennessee wrote his own biography entitled Memoirs. There are also a plethora of biographies written about him and his life that are worth the reading. There are festivals all over the place that continue to celebrate his work. This playwright will truly never die. I should hope that anyone who reads his words develops an intimate relationship with him. It is not hard to do. It is a good idea for actors to research their playwright. It helps to get a better idea of exactly why their characters exist in the first place.
Oh, I am so very thrilled to be under the direction of someone who understands Tennessee Williams!
We then read through the play. Actually, it felt more like me running my mouth for two straight hours. Not uncommon, if you know me, but this was different. Words fly out of Blanche like a migrating flock of birds disperses on hearing a gunshot. To consistently captivate and engage will be a challenge. It's been done before, though, with great success.
I just have to keep trusting.
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