And the work continues

Tuesday was a fascinating day. Two workshops that are very different - Michael is working with us on creating a choral presence. He defines it as creating a collective memory and experience, and as such we used an exercise to create scenes in an elevator - something which we all have in common. The operator describes the scene, and actors take their positions within the scene as they are described. The operator continues to get instructing, with the actors (models) adjusting as necessary, as they can interpret an instruction they way they wish, but the operator may change that interpretation to more closely resemble their memory. Through this exercise we examine memory through three layers - 1 the actual event, 2 the artistic creation of the event and 3 the reality correcting the art. Gloria, you'd be so proud!

Kama Ginkas in the afternoon - so much to write here, but I will encapsulate it by saying that learning about Chekhov from a Russian director is fantastic. He is very regimented in the way that he begins a session, and exhorts us all to find internal discipline in order that we may be prepared for the entrance of the director. Likewise for actors, they must be equally prepared to make the JUMP into their characters. He views our profession as a dedication. Which makes The Seagull an interesting script to work on with him, as a substantial through line is about the vocations of the characters.

In the evening, I lead a fantastic round table about the relationship between director and stage manager, and different tools and techniques for strengthening that relationship. Great input from Michael, our guest director from Greece.

Quick trip into town, and the magical gelato combo was apricot and chocolate.