This happens when:
You happen to cast a few theater divas. Divas can be good, especially in the right role, just know how to handle them. Immaturity and disruptive behavior. Not respecting there is only one director
Conflicts outside of rehearsal (I don’t know about you, but I seriously don’t thrill with actors having relationships during the show, especially teens. They date one week and break up the next). Entitled behavior, Lack of discipline, Not having a cast fully committed. Long, unnecessary, and over extended rehearsal. We can name more; however, this is a good start.
Once this lands inside of your play and festers, it is hard to take back control. The best advice is to confront the instigator (remember to listen to all sides). You do need to lay down the law; especially if bullying is involved. Afterwards there are no “three strikes” if the person can’t conform, then they don’t belong. That is the easy part, the answer lies herein is prevention. It’s called collaboration. Actors’ voices need to be heard and the opportunity to explore in a safe environment.
As a director we all have clear visions for the production and should be able to lead the actors towards making that vision a reality. When ideas come from your actors it’s important to consider and employ new and different ideas in your production. Let’s face it, it’s easy to say you look for collaboration and to share, but to act…hmmm. So, let’s check our ego at the door. Allowing actors to share their ideas and use them in the production can be a real confidence booster. When students are free to explore and try something new or give ideas (whether a different way of communicating the line, lighting effect, costume change and so on), they feel their voices are being heard and making a positive contribution.
Some examples from the last play you ask? Somewhere simple and some were drastic.
Costume change – The character went from delivery boy to one of the members in a mariachi band. Instead of having the character dress in gold pants, gold jacket, and sombrero, he asked to wear his delivery outfit complete with deli hat and just add the gold jacket. You know what, it worked!! He was right, it had a more laughable effect on the audience and kept him in character.
Song change – Our last show featured rock in roll hits from the fifties. One actor felt his voice couldn’t hit the notes required. The fifties genre was not his singing style. He rehearsed and rehearsed and said, “he wasn’t feeling it”. Three weeks before the show aired being his own worst critic, I asked “What are you feeling”? His answer was “Johnny Be Goode”. Song was changed, he felt good, hit his notes, and performed like a pro. I especially liked his leap off the stage!!
That’s just a few from the last show. Bottom line, director ego was let go, actors performed at a higher standard, a deep appreciation for one another to put their best foot forward, genuine support and a total respect for one another. That’s gelling!!
