Every play production has a beginning. In the theatre the production cycle begins with the selection of the play. Often this is done by a committee. after the play is selected a head director is selected. sometimes the head director is chosen from a pool of volunteers other times they are hired. The director will read and analyze the script and come up with an artistic version. this vision is than shared with the other directors. Some head directors prefer assembling there own team. Some theatre's have production teams permanently on staff. There are many steps to the PPC.
Steps
Step 1: Script analysis and scene sketch. Read the script scene by scene taking notes to every technical aspect. Create a sketch of the scene design you would share with the Scene Designer.
Step 2: Scale scene design, scene elevation, perspective and color panel. Include both a scene design, elevation and perspective of your vision. include primary colors with notes on color placement, space and feel.
Step 3: Costume Morgue. Settle on look for the costuming, weather period accurate or fanciful, to share withe the costume designer.
Step 4: Lighting plot. Settle on a lighting placement, color and intensity are important.
Step 5: Music Log. Select music and create a sound log and sound folder.
Step 6: Build a 1/4" scale model.
Step 1 (Worksheet)
You are the lead director. You will be directing a play. To start you must compile an artistic vision of the play.
As you read the script take notes on any aspect of the play that will become a part of your vision. (colors, sounds, setting, feel, lighting, makeup and costuming) (minimum 1 page typed) Make special note of page numbers containing lots of scenic information.
In words describe you idea for the scene design. (100+ word descriptive paragraph)
Sketch out you scene design.
List characters and describe each: Describe their costuming.
In words describe the music you would like. ( include examples )
In words describe the lighting that should be used. (front lighting, back lighting, drop lighting, Etc)
Step 2
Draft the floor plan of your show in 1/4" scale. Be sure to include all necessary entrances and exits, furniture and other properties. Be sure to include notes on color and feel.
Draft a front Elevation of the show in 1/4" scale.
Draw a front perspective to present to the set designer to help guide him to your desired set. Be sure to make notes on colors throughout the space including woods, walls, wallpapers, etc.
Drawings will be turned in both physically and electronically.
Create a color panel of all major colors used in your set design.
Step 3
Costuming is often considered the most important part of character creation. it is a defining visual cue to the audience of a characters self identity. You will compile a paper doll collage or sketch and color a complete costume for each character. Each character in the show must have there own page and all costuming represented on the page. No two performers may have the same costume unless the script dictates that it should be so. Example
Step 4
Without lights the show would not be seen. With the floor plan in front of you, you will settle on a lighting feel, color and intensity. You will also indicate lighting areas and focused specials as need. The lighting plot will thin be organized and a program worksheet created.
Step 5
Music must be selected for the show. The music must be Royalty free and available. All selections should be appropriate for the play in theme, mood, period and feel. You will be selecting opening music as well as any random music in the script. These will be timed and all start and stop cues must be noted.
Step 6
Using 1/4" Scale create a complete model including colors and at least 2 scale characters in costume.