Wednesday 2nd August
Last day of rehearsals.
Second dress rehearsal.
Its been raining all day.
But it brightens up and we decide to do our Outside scenes in the dress. They go ok. Seems like ages since we've done them in situ. Rest of Dress is ok. Good even. The pace was up. There's a very positive feel about it. Puts us in a good place to begin the run tomorrow night.
Personally it was ok. Some objectives were nailed. Energy was good. Voice was a little shouty. The light level in the chapel was good – didn't get dark until much later than I expected. The sunset was brilliant – a great sign.
The song by Orson "Happiness" has just come on the radio. Excellent! Its followed me thru the rehearsal process – a great summer tune. And its what the play's all about.
Was lying in bed reading David Mamet's book for actors "True and False". Its the bible for those who want to sustain a career in the theatre. He speaks profoundly on Action, Talent, Technique, Playing, Guilt, Habit and more. It inspires, informs and advises and keeps the art of the actor sacred, without ever being secretive and "worthy." And it makes you be brave and face your fears night after night after night.
So 4 weeks finally come to a head tomorrow. The first night is a strange thing. People get nervous, get very ecited, forget their lines, get caught up in the frenzy of performing. And an audience might laugh which throws us. Its the start of another process – of creating something new each night with a new audience, keeping true to the story of the play. And growing into a part and pushing it to the extremes. Can't wait to begin.
