Announcement: Stage Managers

I am happy to announce that we will have a Co-Stage Management team this year.  

Marjorie Sheiman

&

Lydia Fecker

Welcome aboard!!!

On the Subject of Conflicts...

A few more words on various potential conflicts...

April 8 - The Choir Trip

I am aware that some of the people who would like to audition would not be able to be at the mandatory rehearsal on Friday, April 8, due to an exciting choir trip.  May you still audition?  Yes, you may. But understand that the conflict will be taken into account when I make casting decisions. Those who have the fewest conflicts always get top priority in my initial casting filter.  Let me also note that if you have already committed to the choir trip, you should honor that commitment.  

Outdoor School

No actor may be absent for an entire week at any point in the process. This makes outdoor school nearly impossible to negotiate.  

April 30 - Prom

Currently tech rehearsals go until 10:00p on that day.  I will be looking at a way to stop earlier so as to allow people to attend prom. But understand that tech will happen on that day.  Likely, actors will now be called in at 11:00a, and we will end no earlier than 5:00p.  So realize that if you are attending prom, you will have a long day.  

In General

I am aware that it's frustrating to have to make choices.  But I also think there is great value in that.  It's not possible to do everything.  And I honor everyone's determination regarding their own priorities.  My policy on conflicts is in place to ensure the production process honors the talent and time of all the collaborators...and that it's as fair as possible.  New Works is a big commitment, and as always, I will try to remain clear on expectations.  

When I approach casting, I first look at all the conflicts on the audition forms.  Those who have the fewest conflicts instantly get moved into the preferential pile. That said, you must be honest and clear on your audition forms. Because if you are cast and then you begin to add various conflicts that were not on your form, it may jeopardize your involvement in the production.  I also urge you to be clear when listing conflicts.  If there is flexibility on your end, say that:

Example:  

Wednesdays, voice lessons 4p - 5p (flexible)

Monday, April 11, out of town

If you have questions about anything, you may always email me at matthew.b.zrebski@gmail.com  

Though I have pretty strict policies, I do remain reasonable and understand you are all having to juggle many things!  I'm really excited to see all your talent at auditions on March 14!!!

Audition Packet / Conflicts

AUDITION PACKET

Though most of you have probably picked up the packet in hard copy from the auditorium door, please click HERE should you wish to download it.  It is critical that you and your guardian(s) read it thoroughly and that the final page - the audition form - be properly filled out and brought with you to generals - including a headshot!

CONFLICTS

The mandatory dates in the packet are just that:  mandatory.  Do not audition if you have conflicts during those dates.  Here they are:

Thursday 3/17:  3:30p - 6:00p

Friday 4/8:  10:00a - 6:00p (no school that day)

Saturday 4/16:  1:00p - 6:00p

All rehearsals / shows:  4/25 through 5/16

As for other conflicts, I will consider but not guarantee that I can accommodate. And you should note that conflicts play a major role in casting.  The more conflicts you have, the less likely you are to be cast.  For those in Vivace, I expect a compromise.  I will not let you out for every Vivace rehearsal if you are called, so please note that it will have to be negotiated.

Thanks!

MZ

Added Audition Slots

Due to the extremely enthusiastic response to the audition opportunity, we have added 12 additional slots for generals.  

First come, first serve!  

On the auditorium door!

Vernal Eclipse: Audition Drafts!!!

The audition drafts of the scripts for Vernal Eclipse are now available for download.

Bearing the Blaze
by Caroline Fenty

Engine
by Alex Denman-Still

Warning Sign
by Alexandre Crepeaux

Click HERE to read/download.

What is an "Audition Draft"?  

These are the drafts that everyone auditioning must read prior to coming in to audition for the production.  These also represent the current versions of the plays.  What's important to note is that, being a new works festival, these scripts will go through changes.  Once the production is cast, the playwrights will be able to hear their work read by the actors and then assess the needs for edits, additions, etc.  As always, this is a fluid process with the ultimate goal being to present the best possible versions of the plays by opening night!

Vernal Eclipse: Apply for Stage Management

CALL FOR STAGE MANAGERS

I am looking for a strong, responsible, and committed stage manager for this year's festival.  

The job requires incredible organization, solid communication skills, even temperament, and the ability to multitask extremely well.  The SM will also run either the light or sound board.  

Though experience is helpful, I am also open to someone who possesses the above qualities and has the desire to learn.

If interested, please email me directly to set up a phone or in-person interview.  

Email Deadline:  Monday 3/7 at 10:00p

Email to:  matthew.b.zrebski@gmail.com

Vernal Eclipse: Auditions Update

SAVE THE DATES!

PLAN ACCORDINGLY!

The 12th Annual New Works Festival
Vernal Eclipse
Auditions

Scripts will be published for reading by the end of the week (2/26/16). Audition packets with more detailed information will also be made available by the end of the week (2/26/16).

PLEASE NOTE

Understand that GPA is strongly considered when looking at potential actors for the production.  It is imperative that academics not suffer as a result of extra-curricular activities.   A GPA under 2.75 will require an explanation.

Everyone is encouraged to come out and audition regardless of grade, age, cultural background, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or body type.  We embrace the spirit of diversity and welcome everyone to the process.

GENERALS 

Mon. 3/14, 4p - 6p - sign up for a slot on auditorium door on 2/26

Except for reading the plays, there is nothing to prepare for this audition.  Part of the assessment will be your ability to handle whatever is thrown at you.  Your vocal technique, physical skills, improvisation, and openness to your fellow actors will be key.  This will be a group audition in small groupings. Dress in movement clothing and be prepared to work in bare feet.  A positive, supportive, and intensely focused demeanor is important. 

CALL BACKS 

Tues. 3/15 4p - 6p and Wed. 3/16, 4p – 8p

The call back process will include readings from the scripts and additional investigation of acting skills and the ability to quickly take direction.

CASTING ANNOUNCEMENT

Wed. 3/16, by 11:00p via the blog.  

A post on the door will be available Thurs. 3/17 by 9a.  Note that first rehearsal is that day:  Thurs. 3/17 at 3:30p (mandatory).

ROLE ACCEPTANCE

By simply showing up, any actor auditioning for the show is saying, “I am excited to accept any role offered.”  No requests will be entertained regarding your role preference.   If you get cast and then refuse a role, it may greatly affect future casting at Lincoln Drama, so make your decision to audition wisely.