A quick note about Staged Readings
versus
Reader’s Theatre
A Staged Reading is a rehearsed presentation of a play with actors holding the script. Performances often include blocking (stage movement), set, props and costumes. These presentations are as close to a full production as you can get without the burden of memorization, and are ideal if short on time.
A Reading is just that, a reading of a play script on stage, usually with the actors sitting in a circle. No props or movement. This is often used to introduce new plays.
Reader’s Theatre is a showcase of works that also does not require set, costumes, props or memorization. It is often a simple setting with chairs and a podium but can also include a variety of genres such as plays, poems, stories and essays, with the teacher’s goal being to promote and improve students’ readings skills and public speaking.
The suggestions that follow are for a Staged Theatrical Reading.
KEEP THINGS SIMPLE
I encourage using some props and costume pieces and any technical support available, because I find that the students have more fun with some trim and frill. Who doesn’t?! Kids love having even one small piece of costume, or a wig, or some makeup.
However, props and actions are done with scripts in hand, so props shouldn’t be a burden. Actions like pouring tea, for example, can either be mimed, or if using cups, mime the liquid.
Set pieces should be simple, too. Two folding chairs for a sofa with a blanket over it will work. Begging or borrowing is good, too. I’ve brought in my own end table and ottoman on occasion; once, even a loveseat!
PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Even though actors do not have to memorize the script, it is important they highlight their lines and rehearse the play with as much time as is allowed. This is especially important if the show is being blocked. Actors need to know where they are going and when to pick up a prop.
HEADS UP!
There is a very natural tendency, when reading from a script, to either hold the script in front of one’s face, or hold it so low one’s head is completely bent over. As lovely as the top of one’s head may be, go for a nice balance with the script by one’s chest so the audience can see and hear them.
ASSIGN STUDENT STAFF
It is helpful to have a stage manager, costume consultant and prop runner assist with the production. Besides relieving the teacher of more work, it is a perfect opportunity to use any students who may not want to perform on stage, but want or need to be included in the production.
Stage Manager: the back stage go-to person during the production., the boss on top of everything.
Costume consultant: meets with cast to decide what each will be wearing, keeping track of what color and style actors are wearing. Avoid white and beige, as they tend to wash out the actor on stage. The costumer can also handle make-up if being used, but suggest actors bring in their own and not share with other cast members.
Props runner: sets up a prop table backstage and marks a place for each prop. I use masking tape and marker. A props runner keeps a prop list and ensures all props are in place on the table before every performance.
IN SUMMARY
- Keep props, set and costumes simple
- Be familiar with the lines
- Have fun!
