Last night was a really great rehearsal (at least it was for me!). We began to give physical shape to the opening and closing scenes. I think the actors were hungry for this step in the process. They now have a pretty good rough sketch of the staging in these scenes and I think this will now allow them to define their roles even more. I actually love this part of the process! I love figuring out how a story gets told physically even with the smallest of movements and gestures. And because our space is small and the play is all about langauge dynamics the movements and gestures can't overwhelm either one the theatre or the words.
Speaking of words...John made some significant changes to two scenes and I think it's safe to say that we all love the changes. Again, the advantage of having the playwright present is that they can continue to hear the play make adjustments to it as rehearsals progress. John has been very receptive to my suggestions and ideas and it is great for me to learn about the director/playwright relationship with John. This is really my first time directing a full production of a NEW play and having gone through a workshop/reading process with this play last year I am much more at ease. I recall asking John last year during that workshop to inform me if I overstepped my role as director or if I didn't ask enough questions and challenge him enough. Honesty is good. Putting side my ego is good.

Breath.