Thursday, July 23, 2009

Back to work!

We are now getting into the routine of the last week of sessions. Leigh is working in the mornings, only, which gives us the chance to rev up for Romeo in the afternoon.

This morning with Leigh, we worked on creating one and two person moments, and then creating moments using one prop, and trying to focus only on using the prop in an unexpected way. I look forward to learning about the approach of Tectonic Theatre Project in regards to documentary theatre.

For Romeo's session today, we watched more video segments, and I got a better sense of the sheer scope and size of his work. Although some of his subject matter is a little much for me, I do have an appreciation for the visual composition and technical elements required to achieve his vision. It defies explanation and description, so I don't think I'll try. But it is very PROVOKING, and the consensus here is mostly in one of two camps - either love or hate the work. I think I will continue to walk the middle, as I can easily separate subject matter from craft. His work is also giving me some ideas, so Blood Brothers design team, look out!!

The central question of Romeo's work is about the eye and the gaze, and distinguishing the visible from the seeable. For me, this translates well into my interest in memory, and also the simplicity with which one can direct focus on stage. I wonder if John Mac has seen any of his work. His use of color and lighting is crazy cool. I can't come up with a better description than that.

Late this evening, we had a visit from some Senegalese musicians (drummers), who joined us for dinner, and then played for about 45 minutes up in the field. Quite wonderful!

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