DIRECTOR’S PROMPTBOOK
Every member of your acting company should contribute to the promptbook project. Make sure it is clear who is responsible for what.
Directions for construction
1. Write an introductory page for the promptbook in which you explain your overall concept of the scene and how you plan to convey that concept or idea to an audience. In other words, as an acting company, what are you trying to show?
2. Photocopy or type out the scene you have been assigned. Paste the scene onto plain or loose- leaf paper that will go into a folder or binder. Leave plenty of margin space around the text in order to write in instructions for the actors.
3. You may make cuts in your scene by crossing out lines, but Shakespeare’s words must appear in their original sequence without changes in their wording or sense. In the margin, explain briefly why you cut the scene as you did.
4. In the margin beside the text, make production notes about the way you want the scene to be played. Think about the meaning of and behind each character’s words. Include information about tone of voice, gestures, facial expression, and where and how each character will move.
5. Decide how you want to stage the scene and then draw a diagram of the stage set. Make a list of stage properties for your scene.
6. If your scene needs special lighting or music, write a description of a plan for these design elements.
7. Make a cover and table of contents for your promptbook.
8. Each company’s book will be given one letter grade, which each member gets. The books will be evaluated on the basis of completeness, effort, imagination, and accuracy.