Rehearsals
Actors are to arrive at rehearsals on time and prepared. Walking in the door exactly at your call time is not being “on time.” Preparation depends upon the particular point in the rehearsal process, but generally includes careful character analysis, memorization, and creative input. You are encouraged to dress appropriately (character shoes, skirts, etc. will be conducive to the development of your character). Noise in the rehearsal hall is to be kept to a minimum.
1. The usual rehearsal period for a School of Drama production is 5 weeks (from first rehearsal to dry tech). Production type and calendar necessities may result in a shorter or longer period.
2. Productions may rehearse up to six days per week, with a maximum of 28 hours per week. This would allow for 4 hours per weeknight (any four consecutive hours between 6pm and 11pm) and one 8-hour day on the weekend (either Saturday or Sunday).
For the 8-hour day: After 5 hours of rehearsal, a minimum of a one-hour meal break should be given. Also, directors may opt to replace the 8-hour day with a “straight six,” but should allow one 20 minute break in that 6-hour span.
This gives a standard production 132 hours of rehearsal BEFORE tech.
3. Standard Actors’ Equity Association rules on breaks should be understood and enforced. 5 minutes after 55 minutes, or 10 minutes after 80 minutes, except during run-throughs and dress runs, when an act is longer than 80 minutes.
4. During the normal business/teaching hours, individual acting/voice/movement tutorials may be scheduled. There will be no stage manager present, and any production notes that may arise from such tutorials should be conveyed to the stage manager by the director.