As someone distant from the world of theatre and production, the mere thought of crafting a play feels completely out of reach. What play do you choose to produce? How do you assemble a team of like-minded individuals? What resources are needed to turn a script into a captivating performance? With help from the Bedlam cast and crew of ‘Things I know to be True’, a play currently in the works, I hope I can now present to all of you readers the key insights and strategies into shaping a meaningful performance.
Finding a play that resonates with you can be a difficult task but is essential to making a production you believe in. Co-director Jack Greengross saw the play ‘Things I Know to be True’ at the age of 16 and instantly fell in love with it, professing “Oh! That’s what theatre can be”. Whilst you can go to a list of well-rated plays and choose one at random, it is evident that Jack’s long-held passion has been a significant guiding influence throughout the process. The next plan of action is finding a team of like-minded individuals to help you with this idea. What comes in handy is having experience in the theatre sphere, as declared by both producers. Not only does this introduce you to people with similar passions, but it also gives you an idea of how productions function. Don’t just go into it blind!
Following on from this is perhaps the biggest piece of advice: trusting your team. It was clear that the actors trusted the directors with their vision for the stage, the directors trusted the actors to know their characters, and both relied on the producers and crew for behind-the-scenes success. Sitting in a rehearsal, it was heart-warming to see the comraderie they had already established. They began by chatting with each other, laughing, and delving into the psychology behind each of the characters in the scene. This comfortability is essential for a play of this standard and complexity: not only must they reflect the family they are acting out on stage, but they are also navigating significant traumatic events, and it’s important for the well-being of the cast and crew that they are in a safe space to do so. To ensure no one ever felt uncomfortable in the process of this production, adjustments to scenes were encouraged if needed and there were support roles on hand (such as an intimacy director and a committee member who is part of the LGBTQIA+ community).
A poignant suggestion for emotionally charged scenes was to “jump in like cold water,” as shared by Angus Morrison, who plays Bob. Immersing oneself entirely in the character allows for a genuine portrayal and the ability to step out and separate later. This commitment to complete submersion seemed to resonate throughout the cast, reflecting their deep investment in the production’s success. They expressed their dedication by being open to rehearsing at any time and putting in the effort to authentically depict their characters through real-life observations and research.
If you are inspired or intrigued by this process, feel free to witness the culmination of their efforts on the 14 – 17 February during the performance of ‘Things I Know to be True’ (details on @thingsiknowtobetrue.eutc). Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic they’ve worked so hard to create!
Image provided via Bedlam Theatre Press Release
