“Through the eyes of the beholder.”

The devising process we hope to follow

The devising process of “Through the eyes of the beholder.”  A working title.

First Research period 09/04/08 – on going till final production.

• Most importantly I need to find Mr Michael Ross, and see if he would be at all interested in meeting with me. Only then will I know if we can share his story. Some stories are better left untouched.

• Research some historical facts about Peterborough. Where did it come from, how has it developed, where will it be in fifty years?
• Research some of the historical facts about places, events and its people.
• Uncovering Peterborough and finding those interesting facts that gives Peterborough an identity.
• Search through local press clips for any recurring themes surrounding issues based in the community in Peterborough.
• Ask the question: Peterborough, a City, or a town with a cathedral?
• To create a questionnaire that won’t intimidate. A questionnaire that takes into consideration the pressure we all feel when asked questions we feel we should know. We should take the pressure out of answering such a questionnaire to get an honest overview and opinion of our stories ideas.

Second step is to assemble a company. We need to find:

• Like minded actors who are Peterborough based.
• Actors that are adaptable and versatile and can play many parts.
• They should have strong devising and improvisation skills.
• Who can offer and accept ideas.
• They should be able to work within many different genres.
• They should be able to adhere to the theatrical phrase “Push and pull.” Which basically means mucking in.
• Above all we want people who believe in the story we are trying to tell.

Second research period.

• Maintain a working relationship with Mr Ross.
• Looking at the questionnaires to find common themes and opinions.
• Follow up any new avenues the questionnaires have thrown up.
• Develop story lines.
• Scene synopsis. Giving each scene a title that structures its point. What is it about? What is its function?
• Find a setting.
• Story board ideas.

Begin the devising process.

• Casting.
• Obtaining all props that we would need. For rehearsal process.
• Structured workshops based in finding ways to express each scenes title.
• Structured rehearsal.
• Scripted sessions. Scripting each scene as we go.
• Stage set meetings.
• Costume meetings.
• Music, lighting and stage/sound effect meetings.
• Assembling the crew. (Building)
• Marketing strategies.
• Produce a poster.
• Final title and preview performance.