What is the Observership?

First year MFA Directing students are assigned to observe a production in order to 1) learn from the example of a more experienced director and 2) better understand the production process at Baylor Theatre.

As an observer you will…

  • Attend at least four production meetings.
    • Spread these out through the process so that you see the team during different phases of the production.
    • Attend one early rehearsal (read through, table work, exploratory).
    • Attend two blocking rehearsals.
    • Attend two scene work/close work rehearsals.
    • Attend one stumble-through (perhaps the designer run).
    • Attend two hours of dry tech.
    • Attend two hours of tech with actors.
    • Attend final dress rehearsal.

Following each meeting/rehearsal attendance, you must write a short journal entry via e-mail to DTB (due by 5pm the day after). If you do not send your journal entry on time, that meeting/rehearsal attendance does not “count.”

In your journal entry, describe what work was done in rehearsal. Note what exercises or techniques the director uses. Observe the director’s communication style. Notice what works with the actors and what does not. Describe your own discoveries as an observer.

IMPORTANT

 

  • Do not talk during meetings or rehearsals. Be as invisible as possible!
  • Do not give notes to anyone following rehearsal!
  • Resist the urge to make suggestions to the director!
  • Contact the production SM directly and ask to be added to the e-mail distribution list for meetings, calendar distribution, etc.

Be professional and discreet. Never discuss your thoughts about rehearsal with actors and student crew. If pressed, be positive but general.