Modern Plays Not Modern Enough?
Thu, 2 Aug 2001, 12:35 pmGambler14 posts in thread
Modern Plays Not Modern Enough?
Thu, 2 Aug 2001, 12:35 pmIn the movie cinema we're seeing the most modern characters, plots, settings, costumes and effects. Why then is it that modern theatrical pieces are either old plays modernised or new plays based in old times. The only times i have seen a completely modern performance is back in high school (the past 5 years) when we were told to make a five minute improvisation. Why then can't we turn the concepts of a modern five minute impro into a full length play (I'm at the moment writing one so i'm not a hypocrite). I'm involved in Roleystone theatre only because of the people there because roleystone does nothing but old tripe. The newest play roleystone has done is COSI in which i was involved. It was a great play but it was the set in the 70's. We are in the new millenium now and it contains more issues and concepts to base a play on than any period in history, so why can we not use them in plays today? Comments?
RE: Modern Plays are not Modern?
Fri, 3 Aug 2001, 12:20 amThey are all the same horse - just with a different jockey!
As I am ready to be zipped up into the black body bag ...........As I am at the wrong end of the time scale or line or what ever!
I think it depends on the demographics of the BOSÂ’s your theatre attracts and that being a known and good old safety net for them.
To suddenly change the lighting state while you are starting on a tightrope can be dangerous, however, to do a slow cross fade, very subtly, you will achieve your required results.
I would only want to speak from my present experience at the ‘Old Mill’ -
When I went there and designed the set for ‘Hotel Sorest’, sure there was those who were not happy with the concept, but it worked. Very good houses.
When ‘Jack the Ripper’ was staged, there were the stalwarts who tutt tutted, again the it worked to about 80% or more houses. 'Shirley Valentine' was something different for the Mill’s BOS’s - yet apparently we are not getting any more than yesteryears, excepting that the demographics of the audience may have changed slightly, as regards to age and circumstance.
We would still only average around 70% houses per year, that is - calculating it on my thumb ruler, no matter what shows are performed.
The latest one, on the boards, 'Man of La Mancha' is no exception. It is certainly different and is primarily a play with music thrown in - not a musical, as some may think! Fabulous voices and dazzling dancers, costumes and set are not required, just ordinary AMDRAM warm props, who are used to the best of their collective abilities.
If it was not for the terrible seats the BumÂ’s would not realise they are there seated, without interval, for two hours - thatÂ’s certainly different for the old millers - but at least we can always bank on at least 70% occupancy of the house's in order to budget on.
Hey! We need change - Yes! And we do change - with each new generation -and to hell with the costs?? - So don't woffle on about your local theatre, think about what the word theatre and what it means and is supposed to be and "DO IT", it's does not mean 4 walls, a stage and a camel trying to be a horse!!!
Like me, with one foot in the stirrup and the other in syrup, when I do eventualy slip off my charger - at least I have
"Dreamed the impossible Â…Â….............and will have 'GONE HOME' almost sattisfied!!!!!
{Still a few seats left for "Man of La Mancha" - It's a must see play with music.}
Joe McCabe
As I am ready to be zipped up into the black body bag ...........As I am at the wrong end of the time scale or line or what ever!
I think it depends on the demographics of the BOSÂ’s your theatre attracts and that being a known and good old safety net for them.
To suddenly change the lighting state while you are starting on a tightrope can be dangerous, however, to do a slow cross fade, very subtly, you will achieve your required results.
I would only want to speak from my present experience at the ‘Old Mill’ -
When I went there and designed the set for ‘Hotel Sorest’, sure there was those who were not happy with the concept, but it worked. Very good houses.
When ‘Jack the Ripper’ was staged, there were the stalwarts who tutt tutted, again the it worked to about 80% or more houses. 'Shirley Valentine' was something different for the Mill’s BOS’s - yet apparently we are not getting any more than yesteryears, excepting that the demographics of the audience may have changed slightly, as regards to age and circumstance.
We would still only average around 70% houses per year, that is - calculating it on my thumb ruler, no matter what shows are performed.
The latest one, on the boards, 'Man of La Mancha' is no exception. It is certainly different and is primarily a play with music thrown in - not a musical, as some may think! Fabulous voices and dazzling dancers, costumes and set are not required, just ordinary AMDRAM warm props, who are used to the best of their collective abilities.
If it was not for the terrible seats the BumÂ’s would not realise they are there seated, without interval, for two hours - thatÂ’s certainly different for the old millers - but at least we can always bank on at least 70% occupancy of the house's in order to budget on.
Hey! We need change - Yes! And we do change - with each new generation -and to hell with the costs?? - So don't woffle on about your local theatre, think about what the word theatre and what it means and is supposed to be and "DO IT", it's does not mean 4 walls, a stage and a camel trying to be a horse!!!
Like me, with one foot in the stirrup and the other in syrup, when I do eventualy slip off my charger - at least I have
"Dreamed the impossible Â…Â….............and will have 'GONE HOME' almost sattisfied!!!!!
{Still a few seats left for "Man of La Mancha" - It's a must see play with music.}
Joe McCabe
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