THE TRAGEDY OF MACBETH
PRODUCTION INNOVATIONS
FIGHT/LIFT CALLS
With numerous fight sequences throughout the production, we dedicated approximately 30 minutes for calls before each show to ensure all choreography was reviewed and performed at least once, maintaining consistency, actor preparedness, and safety. As stage combat was new to many of the actors, these calls were especially important in establishing safe practices and building confidence with the choreography. Calls also included lifts to ensure the movements were consistently reviewed and safely executed. Following an actor injury during the run of the show, I communicated closely with the fight captain and assistant fight choreographer to evaluate and adjust specific movements as needed, prioritizing actor safety while maintaining the integrity of the production's choreography.
BLOOD
With the guidance and assistance of the WHM advisor, I coordinated the preparation, preset, and execution of stage blood effects throughout the production. I trained and delegated responsibilities to an assistant stage manager, teaching them how to tie blood bags, prepare blood effects, and preset materials for each designated moment. I also coordinated with an ensemble member who was responsible for cleaning blood from the stage during scene transitions and intermission to maintain a safe performance space. In addition, I established backstage cleanup procedures to minimize the spread of blood and maintain cleanliness, ensuring towels, wipes, and other cleaning supplies were readily available for actors to clean themselves and their costumes between scenes and performances. This required ongoing communication, preparation, and coordination between the stage management team and cast to ensure blood effects were executed consistently and safely.
SWORD SAFETY & CARE
Actor safety was a top priority throughout production, especially since sword work was new to many cast members. In collaboration with the fight choreographers and fight captain, we ensured actors were properly trained to safely handle, use, and move swords in the show. I worked closely with the fight captain to oversee the maintenance, care, and safe storage of all stage weapons throughout the rehearsal and performance process. With the extensive use of swords throughout the production, we established consistent procedures for inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining each weapon. This included regularly cleaning the blades with oil and microfiber cloths, filing the blades, checking their overall condition, and ensuring all weapons were accounted for. All swords were securely locked away when not in use to maintain proper security and accountability. I also delegated weapon maintenance responsibilities to the assistant stage managers, ensuring they understood proper cleaning techniques, inspection procedures, and storage expectations.
CHILD SAFETY & CARE
An additional responsibility throughout the production was coordinating childcare and backstage support for our young performer. I delegated an assistant stage manager to serve as his designated buddy, providing consistent supervision and guidance throughout rehearsals and performances. This included helping him navigate backstage, assisting with entrances and exits, keeping him aware of where he needed to be and when, and ensuring he was safely accompanied throughout the production. We maintained notes in his script and video blocking for his parents to help them stay informed and support his preparation outside of rehearsal. This required additional communication, organization, and delegation to ensure he felt comfortable, supported, and included while maintaining appropriate supervision and a smooth rehearsal and performance process for him.
WORLD BUILDING W/ MUSIC
CAST BONDING
I also prioritized cast bonding and building a supportive ensemble throughout the rehearsal process. I coordinated opportunities for the cast to connect outside of the demands of rehearsals, including organizing a pajama day where actors brought stuffed animals to serve as our audience during rehearsal. We also incorporated creative activities, such as bedazzling pants, to encourage collaboration, creativity, and a sense of community. These activities helped create opportunities for actors to connect with one another, build relationships, and enjoy the rehearsal process. I wanted to foster an environment where everyone felt welcomed, supported, and comfortable, recognizing that building a strong ensemble extended beyond the work happening onstage.
Our director, D. Wilkerson, adapted The Tragedy of Macbeth, and establishing the world of the play was an important and collaborative part of the rehearsal process. D. wanted the actors to have an active role in developing the world of the production rather than simply being given a set of set expectations. We dedicated over a month to world-building exercises, discussions, and musical exploration. Our director was highly motivated by music and shared practices on how music can be incorporated into world-building. Each actor was asked to create a playlist inspired by their character to help them connect with their character's perspective and better understand the world they inhabited. This process encouraged collaboration between the director and actors, allowing ideas to develop collectively and helping establish a shared artistic vision for the production and world of the play. As stage manager, I helped facilitate this process by incorporating these exercises and discussions into the rehearsal schedule and supporting the collaborative work taking place in the room.
