OUR TOWN
PRODUCTION PAPERWORK
OUR TOWN
PRODUCTION PAPERWORK
OUR TOWN
PRODUCTION PAPERWORK
OUR TOWN
PRODUCTION INNOVATIONS
TAP INS & OUTS
A new practice that I learned with this production was "tap in's and tap out's", that our devised movement directors led the cast and stage management team through before and after each rehearsal. Tap in's and tap out's are essentially a way to non-verbally communicate that the entire team is on the same page and is ready to tap into the rehearsal day together. Our Town is based on community, and with the director's vision to incorporate devised movement, every single person had an important and unique role to play in the show, and this practice created a mind set that we were jumping into this journey together. Tap in's are also a great opportunity for me, as a stage manager, to verbally communicate with the cast of the schedule, what the rehearsal day pertains, other important information, and a way for the actors to ask questions. The entire cast, including myself and the stage management team, would create a circle and go through the process of tapping in. This included us taking a deep breath, shaking out our arms and legs (as if we are shaking out the worries and pressures of the day), collectively pantomiming the process of putting our "thinking caps on", and trying to clap at the same time. For tap out's, we would mimic the same process, but backwards. We did this practice before and after every rehearsal and show.
REHEARSAL ROOM VOCAB
Unlike other processes, this space had to be built. It required constant attention, active listening, and making sure that each actor felt seen and heard. The process was not just about the physical work or the rehearsal schedule– it was about fostering an environment where everyone could feel comfortable pushing their boundaries without fear of judgment or harm. The importance of creating that trust and safety could not be overstated, as it allowed the cast to fully invest in the work and each other, ultimately resulting in a more cohesive and authentic performance. Our wonderful co. devised movement directors, Julia Kelly and Lauren Shouse, as well as the cast, came up with rules and boundaries that could be incorporated if anyone felt as if their ideas weren’t heard, anyone felt unsafe or unsure, or to communicate while doing difficult lifts/movements. Here is our list of our rehearsal room vocabulary.
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Before we move forward, someone ask “Does everyone feel heard?”. Not that everyone has to speak, but this allows the opportunity for everyone’s thoughts to enter the space.
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When things start to feel sticky as the group or individually, you can ask “Can we recenter, breath?” in which the group takes a deep breath together OR “Can we recenter silly?” in which everyone responds “1 2 3 it’s our town”.
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Before we move forward, we can say “Container Check” to make sure everyone is on the same page. You can also say “Container Check, I need …” if you feel you are lost or do not understand. The group responds as needed.
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When someone is going into the air, before being lifted they say what leg goes into the air first and what leg comes down first. The group then repeats that verbally all together to make sure everyone is on the same page.
DEVISED MOVEMENT
Our director and movement director introduced devised movement, something they had recently learned and were excited to experiment with. Our Town is a play where the audience is invited to imagine a world with minimal set pieces and props, often relying on pantomime and leaving much open to interpretation. Devised movement, in this context, allowed the ensemble to create their own stories through the movement of their bodies, within the framework of the original narrative. The actors were guided through various movement exercises, including slaloms, walking the grid, hot and cold sequences, round-by-through sequences, fluff sequences, chair duets, and other practices designed to enhance their physicality and creativity. The actors were conditioned from the beginning of the process, dancing to upbeat songs while integrating small practices of devised movement and exercises. Stamina played a key role in this process, as the actors needed to maintain a high level of physical engagement throughout the performance, fully utilizing the movement techniques in every scene. I have added some photos and videos that showcase some of the devised movement the actors created in the show.
VIDEO BLOCKING
Recording and refining blocking and devised movement sequences was essential for all participants. We continued revising and incorporating new staging elements right up until preview night. This ongoing process required constant adaptation, and effectively communicating these changes to the actors was a key part of our workflow. I managed the Google Drive file, where I uploaded updated blocking, potential new movement sequences, and rehearsal photos for actors to look back on and prepare for the next rehearsal.
PJS & SODA FLOATS
Getting the cast involved and truly invested in the process was something I really had to focus on motivating and engaging. In Our Town, there's a scene where the two main characters visit a soda shop and share strawberry ice cream soda floats. To bring that moment to life and build a sense of camaraderie, we decided to make it a special experience for everyone. On our Valentine's Day rehearsal break, we all wore pajamas and indulged in those very soda floats, just like the characters in the play. Each cup came with a personalized positive affirmation, serving as a small but meaningful reminder that their hard work doesn't go unnoticed. It was a way to lift their spirits and show them that the effort they put into the production truly matters.
MUSIC THERAPY PLAYLIST
My approach to stage management goes beyond just logistics and organization; I place a strong emphasis on mental preparation and fostering healthy habits for everyone involved. One practice I’ve integrated into my process is music therapy. By selecting specific styles and qualities of music, I aim to create a conducive atmosphere in the rehearsal space that enhances focus, mood, and creativity. This music sets the tone right from the moment the actors walk into the room. Depending on the day’s work list and the energy we need, I’ll adjust the music accordingly—whether it’s something upbeat and energizing to inspire movement and enthusiasm or something more calming to create a relaxed, focused environment. There are times when I’ll opt for natural sounds, like wildlife or nature-inspired tracks, to help bring a sense of peace and grounding. This mindful use of music helps the cast and crew mentally transition into rehearsal mode, allowing them to feel centered and ready to engage in the day’s work with clarity and intention. I have added our playlist below.