REHEARSALS
Rehearsals begin in late May (the exact date depends on when the season begins and how long it takes to cast the shows) and continue throughout the season.
On average, rehearsals run daily for the two to three weeks preceding the first performance of a play, with read throughs and initial blocking beginning a month in advance of opening. Parts are assigned in early June and it is expected that actors will come to first rehearsals with a working knowledge of the complete play and already have some of their lines in hand.
Rehearsals on weeknights (Monday through Friday) normally begin at 7 pm and end around 10 pm. Rehearsals early in the schedule end sooner; later rehearsals may run a bit longer. Sunday rehearsals may run from noon until 4 pm. This period is sometimes halved to permit two different productions time on the main stage. When two play rehearsals are scheduled at the same time, one is run on-stage; the other, off-stage. Saturday rehearsals are called only when necessary, at any time between noon and 4 pm.
You will be given a complete rehearsal schedule - covering all productions - at tryouts. It is assumed that you will make all rehearsals for the play(s) in which you are cast.
Rehearsals listed for an individual play may be altered by the director. Some sessions are devoted to one or two scenes only. If you are not involved, you are not expected to attend. The director may also call for an earlier start for a particular rehearsal session; you will be advised on any changes in time or location well in advance.
In the event of rain, come to the stage (or assigned spot) and a decision will then be made as to how that rehearsal will proceed. Never assume that a rehearsal or performance is cancelled because of bad weather.
One of the things that makes Guild seasons successful is our actors’ strong sense of dedication and self-discipline. Since rehearsal time is limited, it cannot be wasted - it is expected that when you are not on stage, you are working on lines, running through scenes, trying out costumes and props, and working to get yourself well-settled into your part. It is also important to help others when possible by prompting scenes and being willing to run lines with them.
This all may sound highly regimented, but the opposite is true. The Guild affords actors a great deal of freedom in preparing their roles and the atmosphere is a pleasant one: a group of individuals committed to doing justice to themselves, their colleagues, and the great works of the theatre. And the cast and crew form a unique type of camaraderie, a loose, easygoing environment sometimes referred to as "adult day camp" by our veteran cast members.