Rehearsing for a performance - EdexcelTypes of early rehearsals

When devising a piece of theatre, early rehearsals need to focus on the aims and the creation of appropriate material. The question ‘What is the point?’ can be repeated to help link thinking back to what the piece aims to communicate. This can be very useful when considering the desired audience response and longer-term audience impact.

Blocking

The performance can then be worked through scene by scene to establish where actors should be on the stage and when, known as blocking. The main focus should be:

• the use of space
• the set
• how to establish mood and atmosphere

Designers can also plan out their ideas during this process and analyse the requirements for their designs. For example, if levels are needed centre stage the set designer will need to plan for this.