There are only four published productions of Regrets Only, which are as followed in the blog. Thank you.
Side note- The Sam Houston production is the only production ever done in the southern region of America, all published prodcutions are in the north. Although one is performed at a university campus it is done with non students. Sam Houston is the first all student production of Regrets only. Just fun facts that I found :) Thanks
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Production Reviews
1)Have a Play Full of Zingers? You Know Whom to Cast
By BEN BRANTLEY
New York Times
Published: November 20, 2006
The temptation for anyone writing about “Regrets Only,” which doubles as a comedy of Park Avenue manners and (far less persuasively) a tract on gay marriage, is to quote as many of those one-liners as space allows and then to try to describe just how Ms. Baranski delivers them.
But if I did that, there wouldn’t be much incentive for thrifty readers to attend this production, would there? They would be able to enliven cocktail parties by reciting Mr. Rudnick’s best jokes without having paid to see “Regrets Only.” And the Manhattan Theater Club, having gotten off to a rocky start this season with the reviled “Losing Louie” on Broadway, could use a hit comedy.
Hank is a wildly successful, gentlemanly designer with a passing resemblance to a real designer who was also wildly successful and gentlemanly and had an alliterative name: Bill Blass, who died in 2002. (Having known Mr. Blass, I can say with some authority that the parallels, like much of “Regrets Only,” are strictly on the surface.)
A hitherto apolitical animal, Hank — whose lover of many years died only months before the play begins — finds himself stirred to righteousness when a member of his intimate social set, a big-time lawyer named Jack McCullough (David Rasche), agrees to consult with President Bush on the drafting of a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage.
What makes the situation especially thorny is that Jack is married to Hank’s closest confidante, Tibby, a professional partygoer and perfectly groomed clotheshorse. (The alarmingly productive William Ivey Long did the sociologically accurate costumes.) Tibby is played by Ms. Baranski, in a long-overdue return to the New York stage.
Anyway, Jack’s involvement with this proposed amendment forces Hank and Tibby to rethink what defines a marriage and, for that matter, a friendship.
Others join the debate: Myra (Jackie Hoffman), the McCulloughs’ madcap maid, who keeps interjecting her opinions in different foreign accents, with accessories to match; Marietta Claypoole (a regally funny Sian Phillips), Tibby’s madcap, much-married mother; and Spencer (Diane Davis), Tibby and Jack’s only mildly madcap daughter, who is about to be married for the first time.
Much madcap merriment — but with a message — ensues when Hank decides to prove that it’s gay people who make the McCulloughs’ world go round. Though Hank’s means of making his point have already been disclosed in advance feature articles in magazines and newspapers (including this one), I am not going to describe it. That would spoil the minimal surprise of the high concept (well, knee-high concept) that shapes the second act.
But too often “Regrets Only” has the unconvincing air of someone yelling, “Save the geese!” while feasting on foie gras. And when people aren’t merely being witty, the play sags.
As accomplished as the cast is, only Ms. Baranski strides the divide between comic intoxication and emotional sobriety. As she proved on the sitcom “Cybill,” she is a master of the deflating putdown. But as in her earlier stage work, she finds the complexity beneath her character’s ostensible silliness.
Tibby’s shiny stylishness never quite conceals the abiding lack of confidence of a girl who grew up with an overpowering, luxury-addicted mother. (When she was anorexic, she says, her mother told her: “Good for you! Keep going!” Yes, I know I promised not to do that. I’m sorry.)
Anyone who has spent time in Park Avenue dining rooms will probably have met someone much like Tibby, as Ms. Baranski portrays her: a woman who, despite a life devoted principally to clothes and menus, is too smart, too damaged and too valiant to be dismissed.
http://theater2.nytimes.com/2006/11/20/theater/reviews/20regr.html
2)Regrets Only: ... And Now for the Neil Simon Side of Paul Rudnick
By Bob Randall
talkingbroadway.com
July 2007
Now, Premiere Stages, located at Kean University, is presenting Rudnick's latest, Regrets Only, a (conservatively) joke-a-minute Neil Simon-esque, stylistically mainstream comedy. Although both authors deal with personal relationships, Simon's best plays seem strictly personal, whereas Rudnick's concerns are more social and political.
Still, Rudnick's topic is hardly mainstream. For months, since the death of his life partner, famed dress designer Hank Hadley has remained withdrawn from his normal social pursuits. Tonight, Hank arrives at the luxurious Fifth Avenue penthouse apartment of his best friend, Tibby McCullough, and her constitutional attorney husband, Jack. Hadley is prepared for a night of society party hopping. On the scene is the McCullough's daughter, Spencer, also a hot shot attorney. Spencer announces that she has become engaged to a much older, super wealthy investment banker and she intends to have a St. Patrick's wedding with "the whole works."
Hank feels betrayed when Jack proudly tells him about being asked by President (George W.) Bush to come up with an iron clad definition which would limit marriage to being between a man and a woman. Jack is thrilled by the honor of the request and asks the willing Spencer to accompany him as his assistant. Only Tibby is simpatico to Hank's objections, but she is not willing to stand up in opposition to Jack and Spencer. As the first act curtain descends, Hank now feels that he is not being treated as a friend and equal, but rather as an entertainer by his old friends. He declines to join them for their planned night out.
In the first act, Rudnick peppers us with one joke after another. Most are very funny, but they are scattershot as Rudnick seems not to care whether or not they are relevant to the action or consistent with character. Omnipresent (constantly shuffling in and out) is the wise cracking maid whose every word, gesture and movement is tied to a gag (comedienne Jackie Hoffman played this role at the Manhattan Theatre Club). The maid opens with an Irish brogue, followed hard on by a French accent and then a Cockney one. When asked why the accents, she responds, "I'm tired of being the only white, Jewish maid in New York." Well, Rudnick's Myra Kesselman may be Jewish, but her prototype reached its apogee over sixty years ago in the screen performances of the resplendently Irish Patsy Kelly.
The first (of two) scene in the second act is the heart of Regrets Only, and it is a corker. It is four months later, and Spencer is trying to make final arrangements for her wedding, but she cannot reach her florist, music coordinator or travel agent. Shortly Hank arrives and informs one and all (including Tibby's dotty mother, Marietta) that, sparked by his anger at Jack and Spencer, he has organized gays to protest their inability to marry by not showing up at their jobs. There are more funny jokes in this extended scene than there are over the entire length of most comedies. Even better, these jokes all relate to the topic at hand. This boycott idea (re: American blacks) was explored in Douglas Ward Turner's 1965 one act, "Day of Absence" and has proven impractical when actually attempted, but it is presented by Rudnick with such sharp and satiric good humor that it plays like a breath of fresh air. My notes contain almost two dozen uproarious jokes from this scene including over a half dozen about the theatre. I'll share one here. Marietta bemoans all the cancelled theatre performances. Asked "what about Matthew Broderick?", she responds, "He wanted to go on, but he was afraid of Nathan Lane."
It seems inexplicable given the high powered cast that performed the play at the Manhattan Theatre Club last fall, but I enjoyed Premiere Stages' Regrets Only more. Particularly outstanding is the warm and casually dignified performance of Douglas Scott Allen as Hank Hadley. Allen conveys the hurt and mystification that Hank feels with small delicate strokes. His recounting of his relationship with and feelings toward his late partner has a deeply human, universal feel which transcends specific sexuality. His Hank is the center and anchor of the play.
Paul Rudnick may not write the best structured plays, but he is certainly one of the funniest, if not the funniest, writer that we have in the American theatre. Of the two Rudnick plays currently running not very far apart in New Jersey, the more mainstream Regrets Only is more likely to appeal to audiences taking their first theatre journey with him.
http://www.talkinbroadway.com/regional/nj/nj237.html
3)Regrets Only Leaves You with No Regrets
By Joe Monroe II
Theatre Louisville Reviews
Sept 4, 2007
Regrets Only, Pandora's season opener and its third Paul Rudnick play, provokes thought, challenges the status quo, and keeps you laughing. Pandora has a winner.
Paul Rudnick is known as the quintessential writer of gay comedy. I, personally, didn’t know that there was such a thing as “gay” comedy, and I am still not sure if I would classify this play as one. It is a satirical comedy that is truly funny. Rudnick likes to deal with social and political issues, and this show tests relationships, loyalties, and convictions on both of those levels.
Scene one of three introduces most of the characters. Best friends Tibby (played by Carol Tyree Williams) and Hank (a famous, gay dress designer whose partner has recently passed -- played by Dale Strange) are planning a night on the town, party hopping to various upper-class social events. Spencer (Sarah Meuler), a big-time lawyer, enters bragging about her seven-figure salary and announces to everyone that she is marrying an investment banker. In the same scene, Jack (Sean Childress), husband of Tibby, father of Spencer and also a big-time attorney, receives a call from the President of the United States, asking him to help change the Constitution and come up with a clear definition of marriage that would limit it to being between a man and a woman. Jack takes the challenge and invites Spencer to help him. Spencer immediately begins to ask the question, “What is marriage?”k feels his friendship is betrayed by Jack and Spencer for even considering the President's offer. Scenes two and three deal with Hank putting a plan in place to show his friends and others what the world would be like without gay people. Although the ending is predictable, the jokes and characters keep the audience's attention.
This show has a great cast, with its most memorable character being Myra (Greylyn Gregory), the only white Jewish maid in New York. She keeps the first scene going by being omnipresent, entering and exiting while delivering punch lines in various accents. Later, other things are revealed about her character, but she is consistently the comic relief and a breath of fresh air when scenes are getting too serious or starting to drag.
Michael Drury showcases excellent directing skills as he brings this Rudnick play to life in the beautiful Bunbury Theatre. Missing this show would be a "regrettable" mistake.
http://theatrelouisville.org/reviews2007/jm_regrets.php
4)Regrets Only
Director James Brannan
July 2007
Capehouse Theatre
There is no review for this show, this a character breakdown and cast bio. It was the only thing I could find for a review.
https://secure.kisscomputing.com/capeplay1/RegretsPhotosBios.htm#RegretsPhotosBios
By BEN BRANTLEY
New York Times
Published: November 20, 2006
The temptation for anyone writing about “Regrets Only,” which doubles as a comedy of Park Avenue manners and (far less persuasively) a tract on gay marriage, is to quote as many of those one-liners as space allows and then to try to describe just how Ms. Baranski delivers them.
But if I did that, there wouldn’t be much incentive for thrifty readers to attend this production, would there? They would be able to enliven cocktail parties by reciting Mr. Rudnick’s best jokes without having paid to see “Regrets Only.” And the Manhattan Theater Club, having gotten off to a rocky start this season with the reviled “Losing Louie” on Broadway, could use a hit comedy.
Hank is a wildly successful, gentlemanly designer with a passing resemblance to a real designer who was also wildly successful and gentlemanly and had an alliterative name: Bill Blass, who died in 2002. (Having known Mr. Blass, I can say with some authority that the parallels, like much of “Regrets Only,” are strictly on the surface.)
A hitherto apolitical animal, Hank — whose lover of many years died only months before the play begins — finds himself stirred to righteousness when a member of his intimate social set, a big-time lawyer named Jack McCullough (David Rasche), agrees to consult with President Bush on the drafting of a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage.
What makes the situation especially thorny is that Jack is married to Hank’s closest confidante, Tibby, a professional partygoer and perfectly groomed clotheshorse. (The alarmingly productive William Ivey Long did the sociologically accurate costumes.) Tibby is played by Ms. Baranski, in a long-overdue return to the New York stage.
Anyway, Jack’s involvement with this proposed amendment forces Hank and Tibby to rethink what defines a marriage and, for that matter, a friendship.
Others join the debate: Myra (Jackie Hoffman), the McCulloughs’ madcap maid, who keeps interjecting her opinions in different foreign accents, with accessories to match; Marietta Claypoole (a regally funny Sian Phillips), Tibby’s madcap, much-married mother; and Spencer (Diane Davis), Tibby and Jack’s only mildly madcap daughter, who is about to be married for the first time.
Much madcap merriment — but with a message — ensues when Hank decides to prove that it’s gay people who make the McCulloughs’ world go round. Though Hank’s means of making his point have already been disclosed in advance feature articles in magazines and newspapers (including this one), I am not going to describe it. That would spoil the minimal surprise of the high concept (well, knee-high concept) that shapes the second act.
But too often “Regrets Only” has the unconvincing air of someone yelling, “Save the geese!” while feasting on foie gras. And when people aren’t merely being witty, the play sags.
As accomplished as the cast is, only Ms. Baranski strides the divide between comic intoxication and emotional sobriety. As she proved on the sitcom “Cybill,” she is a master of the deflating putdown. But as in her earlier stage work, she finds the complexity beneath her character’s ostensible silliness.
Tibby’s shiny stylishness never quite conceals the abiding lack of confidence of a girl who grew up with an overpowering, luxury-addicted mother. (When she was anorexic, she says, her mother told her: “Good for you! Keep going!” Yes, I know I promised not to do that. I’m sorry.)
Anyone who has spent time in Park Avenue dining rooms will probably have met someone much like Tibby, as Ms. Baranski portrays her: a woman who, despite a life devoted principally to clothes and menus, is too smart, too damaged and too valiant to be dismissed.
http://theater2.nytimes.com/2006/11/20/theater/reviews/20regr.html
2)Regrets Only: ... And Now for the Neil Simon Side of Paul Rudnick
By Bob Randall
talkingbroadway.com
July 2007
Now, Premiere Stages, located at Kean University, is presenting Rudnick's latest, Regrets Only, a (conservatively) joke-a-minute Neil Simon-esque, stylistically mainstream comedy. Although both authors deal with personal relationships, Simon's best plays seem strictly personal, whereas Rudnick's concerns are more social and political.
Still, Rudnick's topic is hardly mainstream. For months, since the death of his life partner, famed dress designer Hank Hadley has remained withdrawn from his normal social pursuits. Tonight, Hank arrives at the luxurious Fifth Avenue penthouse apartment of his best friend, Tibby McCullough, and her constitutional attorney husband, Jack. Hadley is prepared for a night of society party hopping. On the scene is the McCullough's daughter, Spencer, also a hot shot attorney. Spencer announces that she has become engaged to a much older, super wealthy investment banker and she intends to have a St. Patrick's wedding with "the whole works."
Hank feels betrayed when Jack proudly tells him about being asked by President (George W.) Bush to come up with an iron clad definition which would limit marriage to being between a man and a woman. Jack is thrilled by the honor of the request and asks the willing Spencer to accompany him as his assistant. Only Tibby is simpatico to Hank's objections, but she is not willing to stand up in opposition to Jack and Spencer. As the first act curtain descends, Hank now feels that he is not being treated as a friend and equal, but rather as an entertainer by his old friends. He declines to join them for their planned night out.
In the first act, Rudnick peppers us with one joke after another. Most are very funny, but they are scattershot as Rudnick seems not to care whether or not they are relevant to the action or consistent with character. Omnipresent (constantly shuffling in and out) is the wise cracking maid whose every word, gesture and movement is tied to a gag (comedienne Jackie Hoffman played this role at the Manhattan Theatre Club). The maid opens with an Irish brogue, followed hard on by a French accent and then a Cockney one. When asked why the accents, she responds, "I'm tired of being the only white, Jewish maid in New York." Well, Rudnick's Myra Kesselman may be Jewish, but her prototype reached its apogee over sixty years ago in the screen performances of the resplendently Irish Patsy Kelly.
The first (of two) scene in the second act is the heart of Regrets Only, and it is a corker. It is four months later, and Spencer is trying to make final arrangements for her wedding, but she cannot reach her florist, music coordinator or travel agent. Shortly Hank arrives and informs one and all (including Tibby's dotty mother, Marietta) that, sparked by his anger at Jack and Spencer, he has organized gays to protest their inability to marry by not showing up at their jobs. There are more funny jokes in this extended scene than there are over the entire length of most comedies. Even better, these jokes all relate to the topic at hand. This boycott idea (re: American blacks) was explored in Douglas Ward Turner's 1965 one act, "Day of Absence" and has proven impractical when actually attempted, but it is presented by Rudnick with such sharp and satiric good humor that it plays like a breath of fresh air. My notes contain almost two dozen uproarious jokes from this scene including over a half dozen about the theatre. I'll share one here. Marietta bemoans all the cancelled theatre performances. Asked "what about Matthew Broderick?", she responds, "He wanted to go on, but he was afraid of Nathan Lane."
It seems inexplicable given the high powered cast that performed the play at the Manhattan Theatre Club last fall, but I enjoyed Premiere Stages' Regrets Only more. Particularly outstanding is the warm and casually dignified performance of Douglas Scott Allen as Hank Hadley. Allen conveys the hurt and mystification that Hank feels with small delicate strokes. His recounting of his relationship with and feelings toward his late partner has a deeply human, universal feel which transcends specific sexuality. His Hank is the center and anchor of the play.
Paul Rudnick may not write the best structured plays, but he is certainly one of the funniest, if not the funniest, writer that we have in the American theatre. Of the two Rudnick plays currently running not very far apart in New Jersey, the more mainstream Regrets Only is more likely to appeal to audiences taking their first theatre journey with him.
http://www.talkinbroadway.com/regional/nj/nj237.html
3)Regrets Only Leaves You with No Regrets
By Joe Monroe II
Theatre Louisville Reviews
Sept 4, 2007
Regrets Only, Pandora's season opener and its third Paul Rudnick play, provokes thought, challenges the status quo, and keeps you laughing. Pandora has a winner.
Paul Rudnick is known as the quintessential writer of gay comedy. I, personally, didn’t know that there was such a thing as “gay” comedy, and I am still not sure if I would classify this play as one. It is a satirical comedy that is truly funny. Rudnick likes to deal with social and political issues, and this show tests relationships, loyalties, and convictions on both of those levels.
Scene one of three introduces most of the characters. Best friends Tibby (played by Carol Tyree Williams) and Hank (a famous, gay dress designer whose partner has recently passed -- played by Dale Strange) are planning a night on the town, party hopping to various upper-class social events. Spencer (Sarah Meuler), a big-time lawyer, enters bragging about her seven-figure salary and announces to everyone that she is marrying an investment banker. In the same scene, Jack (Sean Childress), husband of Tibby, father of Spencer and also a big-time attorney, receives a call from the President of the United States, asking him to help change the Constitution and come up with a clear definition of marriage that would limit it to being between a man and a woman. Jack takes the challenge and invites Spencer to help him. Spencer immediately begins to ask the question, “What is marriage?”k feels his friendship is betrayed by Jack and Spencer for even considering the President's offer. Scenes two and three deal with Hank putting a plan in place to show his friends and others what the world would be like without gay people. Although the ending is predictable, the jokes and characters keep the audience's attention.
This show has a great cast, with its most memorable character being Myra (Greylyn Gregory), the only white Jewish maid in New York. She keeps the first scene going by being omnipresent, entering and exiting while delivering punch lines in various accents. Later, other things are revealed about her character, but she is consistently the comic relief and a breath of fresh air when scenes are getting too serious or starting to drag.
Michael Drury showcases excellent directing skills as he brings this Rudnick play to life in the beautiful Bunbury Theatre. Missing this show would be a "regrettable" mistake.
http://theatrelouisville.org/reviews2007/jm_regrets.php
4)Regrets Only
Director James Brannan
July 2007
Capehouse Theatre
There is no review for this show, this a character breakdown and cast bio. It was the only thing I could find for a review.
https://secure.kisscomputing.com/capeplay1/RegretsPhotosBios.htm#RegretsPhotosBios
Production History
1)Manhattan Theatre Club, New York, NY
Nov. 2006- Feb. 2007
PAUL RUDNICK (Playwright), CHRISTOPHER ASHLEY (Director), MICHAEL YEARGAN (Scenic Designer), WILLIAM IVEY LONG (Costume Designer), NATASHA KATZ (Lighting Designer), JOHN GROMADA (Sound Designer),MARTHA DONALDSON (Prod. Stage Manager) ,KYLE GATES (Stage Manager)
Cast
Christine Baranski- Tibby
DianeDavis- Spencer
GeorgeGrizzard- Hank
Jackie Hoffman- Mrya
Siân Philips- Marietta
David Rasche - Jack
This is the first production of this show. It was suppossed to end in Dec, but got extended until Feb.
http://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/2006-2007_season/p-regrets-only.htm
2) Premiere Stages Wilkins Theatre on the campus of Kean University
Union, NJ
July 2007
Directed by Ted Sluberski
Set Designer- Kennon Rothchild
Costume Designer- Karen Lee Hart
Cast
Myra Kesselman……………………....Sheila Head
Hank Hadley…………….Douglas Scott Allen
Tibby McCullough…………...Caryn Rosenthal
Jack McCullough……………………Patrick Boll
Spencer McCullough……………..Melissa Miller
Marietta Claypoole……………Kathleen Butler
There is nothing notable about this production.
http://www.talkinbroadway.com/regional/nj/nj237.html
3)Bunbury Theatre at the Historic Henry Clay
Louisville, KY
August-September 2007
Directed by Michael J. Drury
No designers listed on website or review
Cast
Tibby (Carol Tyree Williams)
Hank (Dale Strange)
Spencer (Sarah Meuler)
Jack (Sean Childress)
Myra (Greylyn Gregory)
This theatre prides it's self on producing cutting egde productions. Many gay works are doen at this theatre.
4.Cape Playhouse
July 2007
Dennis MA
Directed By James Brennan
Set by Dan Meeker
Costumes by Gail Baldoni
Cast
DEE HOTY (Tibby McCullough)
KATHEL CARLSON (Myra Kesselman)
HARRY GROENER (Hank Hadley)
JOEL HIGGINS (Jack McCullough)
EDEN RIEGEL (Spencer McCullough)
DAWN DIDAWICK (Marietta Claypoole)
Many of the actors in this production have been on Broadway many times. This is an equity theatre.
Nov. 2006- Feb. 2007
PAUL RUDNICK (Playwright), CHRISTOPHER ASHLEY (Director), MICHAEL YEARGAN (Scenic Designer), WILLIAM IVEY LONG (Costume Designer), NATASHA KATZ (Lighting Designer), JOHN GROMADA (Sound Designer),MARTHA DONALDSON (Prod. Stage Manager) ,KYLE GATES (Stage Manager)
Cast
Christine Baranski- Tibby
DianeDavis- Spencer
GeorgeGrizzard- Hank
Jackie Hoffman- Mrya
Siân Philips- Marietta
David Rasche - Jack
This is the first production of this show. It was suppossed to end in Dec, but got extended until Feb.
http://www.manhattantheatreclub.com/2006-2007_season/p-regrets-only.htm
2) Premiere Stages Wilkins Theatre on the campus of Kean University
Union, NJ
July 2007
Directed by Ted Sluberski
Set Designer- Kennon Rothchild
Costume Designer- Karen Lee Hart
Cast
Myra Kesselman……………………....Sheila Head
Hank Hadley…………….Douglas Scott Allen
Tibby McCullough…………...Caryn Rosenthal
Jack McCullough……………………Patrick Boll
Spencer McCullough……………..Melissa Miller
Marietta Claypoole……………Kathleen Butler
There is nothing notable about this production.
http://www.talkinbroadway.com/regional/nj/nj237.html
3)Bunbury Theatre at the Historic Henry Clay
Louisville, KY
August-September 2007
Directed by Michael J. Drury
No designers listed on website or review
Cast
Tibby (Carol Tyree Williams)
Hank (Dale Strange)
Spencer (Sarah Meuler)
Jack (Sean Childress)
Myra (Greylyn Gregory)
This theatre prides it's self on producing cutting egde productions. Many gay works are doen at this theatre.
4.Cape Playhouse
July 2007
Dennis MA
Directed By James Brennan
Set by Dan Meeker
Costumes by Gail Baldoni
Cast
DEE HOTY (Tibby McCullough)
KATHEL CARLSON (Myra Kesselman)
HARRY GROENER (Hank Hadley)
JOEL HIGGINS (Jack McCullough)
EDEN RIEGEL (Spencer McCullough)
DAWN DIDAWICK (Marietta Claypoole)
Many of the actors in this production have been on Broadway many times. This is an equity theatre.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Production Photos 4
The Cape Playhouse
Dennis MA
2007
Directed by James Brennan
DAN MEEKER (Set Designer),GAIL BALDONI (Costume Designer)
Production Photos 3
Bunbury Theatre at the Historic Henry Clay
2007
Directed by Michael J. Drury
Louisville, KY
Production Photos 2
Manhattan Theater Club
New york,NY
Directed by Christopher Ashley
2006-2007
Sets by Michael Yeargan; Costumes by William Ivey Long; Lighting by Natasha Katz; Sound by John Gromada
Monday, July 28, 2008
Production Photos 1
Premiere Stages Wilkins Theatre on the campus of Kean UniversityUnion, NJ
2007
Directed by Ted Sluberski
Photo: Mike Peters
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Time
Regrets Only is set in the present. Paul Rudnick most likely wrote this play in 2006 and the show was preformed in 2007. The play makes alot of references to New York City, fashion and the current president, George W Bush.
Things like fashion week in NYC would be something very important to these characters. Hank is one of the world's most notable fashion designers.
Anti Gay Marriage acts are currently in the works at this time, setting events and topics in this story. The current president is a hard core republican, meaning that he is not for society movement and has a "good ol boy" mindset. Some American's believe that gay marriage is not okay and will hurt society. This play takes this problem head on, showing New yorkers what life would be like it all the homosexuals in the city took the day off.
Gas Prices are reaching an all time high and rising. This effects all working class citizens, but most likely would not effect this family
Since 2001 the US has been at war and many lives have been lost.
Althrough women have come a long way in the world, it is still consided the "norm" to get married and have children. Even if sucessful in a career. Spencer is a high powered lawyer just like her father, but she feels she needs to be married to be fulfilled.
At this time, the US is split in it's viewpoints. The last election for the president was almost 50/50. But the aftermath of the current president, the US is moving towards a liberal viewpoint since the war has not ended and the economy is falling.
Fashion today is a mix of many different cultures and styles, in order to make something old, new. It does not matter what your taste, they is most likely anything you would want in NYC at this time.
With inventions like the iphone (which Spencer uses in the SHSU production) people can have so much at their fingertips. A phone that holds music, notes, photos, video and the internet.
These characters are very wealthy and have alot of access to anything they want, living in NYC and having connections to high powered people. In todays world it really is about who you know.
Things like fashion week in NYC would be something very important to these characters. Hank is one of the world's most notable fashion designers.
Anti Gay Marriage acts are currently in the works at this time, setting events and topics in this story. The current president is a hard core republican, meaning that he is not for society movement and has a "good ol boy" mindset. Some American's believe that gay marriage is not okay and will hurt society. This play takes this problem head on, showing New yorkers what life would be like it all the homosexuals in the city took the day off.
Gas Prices are reaching an all time high and rising. This effects all working class citizens, but most likely would not effect this family
Since 2001 the US has been at war and many lives have been lost.
Althrough women have come a long way in the world, it is still consided the "norm" to get married and have children. Even if sucessful in a career. Spencer is a high powered lawyer just like her father, but she feels she needs to be married to be fulfilled.
At this time, the US is split in it's viewpoints. The last election for the president was almost 50/50. But the aftermath of the current president, the US is moving towards a liberal viewpoint since the war has not ended and the economy is falling.
Fashion today is a mix of many different cultures and styles, in order to make something old, new. It does not matter what your taste, they is most likely anything you would want in NYC at this time.
With inventions like the iphone (which Spencer uses in the SHSU production) people can have so much at their fingertips. A phone that holds music, notes, photos, video and the internet.
These characters are very wealthy and have alot of access to anything they want, living in NYC and having connections to high powered people. In todays world it really is about who you know.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Sounds
Rap/ Hip Hop- Many cultures coming together with spoken word or beat. This is very popular with young teens and young adults.
Ciara/ Click Flash
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/ciara%20click
Pop- The most popular form of music enjoyed by young adults and teens. This music gets the most airtime on most radio sations. Alot having to do with television shows like American Idol.
I kissed a girl/ Katy Perry
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/i%20kissed%20a%20girl%20katy%20perry
Country- Not just for the country folk anymore, country has gone out of its shell and is now mainstream with all types of Americans.
Before he cheats/ Carrie Underwood
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/Carrie%20underwood%20before%20he%20cheats
Rock
Another very popular music selection. This many times has a pop sound as well. Hard rock is no longer as popluar as it was.
Shake it/ Metro Station
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/shake%20it%20metro%20
Alternative
Most popluar with young teens and adults. It has pop and rock influences in in.
Daughtry/ Home
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/daughtry%20home
All these types of music are available at any music store, or downloadable on itunes, limewire or any music service online that sells music.
Cd's range from 12.99- 21.99 at a music store
Downloadable tracks can be sold alone or with a album. The price ranges, depending on what you want and how many songs you are buying.
Ciara/ Click Flash
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/ciara%20click
Pop- The most popular form of music enjoyed by young adults and teens. This music gets the most airtime on most radio sations. Alot having to do with television shows like American Idol.
I kissed a girl/ Katy Perry
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/i%20kissed%20a%20girl%20katy%20perry
Country- Not just for the country folk anymore, country has gone out of its shell and is now mainstream with all types of Americans.
Before he cheats/ Carrie Underwood
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/Carrie%20underwood%20before%20he%20cheats
Rock
Another very popular music selection. This many times has a pop sound as well. Hard rock is no longer as popluar as it was.
Shake it/ Metro Station
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/shake%20it%20metro%20
Alternative
Most popluar with young teens and adults. It has pop and rock influences in in.
Daughtry/ Home
http://search.playlist.com/tracks/daughtry%20home
All these types of music are available at any music store, or downloadable on itunes, limewire or any music service online that sells music.
Cd's range from 12.99- 21.99 at a music store
Downloadable tracks can be sold alone or with a album. The price ranges, depending on what you want and how many songs you are buying.
Space 10
New York Fashion Week- When anyone who is anyone shows their collections. Filled with designers, models, wealthy new yorkers and stars.http://www.blog.zoozoom.com/zoozoom/new-york-fashion-week-spring-summer-2006/
Space 9
President George W Bush.
He is not for gay marriage and is the president at this time.
theconservativefreedomnewsfeed.blogspot.com
Space 8
Zach Posen- Young Designer said to be the next great American Designer, compaired to Bill Blass.
Space 6
Vera Wang Dress. The most famous wedding dress designer in America. Spencer is getting married in the production.
Space 5
Many gay rights activists rallys are taking place at this time. The topic of gay marriage is a still a taboo subject in America.
Space 4
Central Park View
Apartments on Central Park West as seen from the Lake, right to left:The Kenilworth (1908)San Remo Apartments (1930)The Langham (1907)The Dakota (1881-84) . Very much apart of New York Life.
Space 3
An upper east side penthouse, very much like the McCullough home in "Regrets Only". The Upper East Side includes the area from 59th Street to 96th Street and 5th Avenue to the East River - including all of Lenox Hill, Yorkville, Carnegie Hill and areas along Park Avenue, Madison Avenue and 5th Avenue
Space 2
A New York taxi is one of the main modes of transportion in New York. The characters in the production most likely did not take the subway.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Space
MICHAEL WESETLYFashion Week 2006
Interestingly enough, the Wesetly Clothing line began internationally in 2005 in Europe, Asia, and South America. His line consists not only of men but women’s suits, shirts, accessories, knitwear, bottoms, boots, ties, sportwear, and winter coats.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
The Facts: Characters and Casting
Cast:
Mrya Kesselman- Female, 45-55, white, Jewish. The maid of the McCullough family, has been employed by the family for years.
Hank Hadley- Male, 50-60, white. Famous fashion designer, Tibby's best friend.
Tibby McCullough- Female, 50-60, white. Wife of Jack, Mother of Spencer. Best friend of Hank
Jack McCullough-Male, 50-60, white. Husband of Tibby, Father of Spencer. High powered lawyer in New York.
Spencer McCullough- 25-27, white. Daughter of Tibby and Jack. She is a lawyer. She is getting married.
Marietta Claypoole-70-80, White. Mother of Tibby and Grandmother of Spencer. She is a rich woman.
This play has a lot to do with place in society and how issues are viewed by high society. The play talks about how Marietta, Hank, Tibby and Jack are all "wasps". This means they are white and wealthy from a good family. Myra is a maid but she refers to herself as a white woman in the text. Jack and Tibby refer to themselves as white as well. The only character that never calls herself white is Spencer. She does call herself "privileged" but if a director wanted to, he could cast a Black, Asian, or Hispanic actress as Spencer because sometimes wealthy couples adopt children of any race. It is the directors choice.
Others may say that Hank is not related to the family so he may be any race but, he is supposed to be based on a current famous American male fashion designer. Currently there are no famous fashion designers of "Hank"s type of sportswear that are male in America that are Black, Asian or Latino, they are all white. So in my opinion he must be a white male in order to fit the story correctly. Their is no way the story could work if the family was not a "wasp" family with the exception of Spencer. They must all be played by the correct gender as well. There are many men and women jokes and gender specific guidelines, the show would not work if cast otherwise.
Mrya Kesselman- Female, 45-55, white, Jewish. The maid of the McCullough family, has been employed by the family for years.
Hank Hadley- Male, 50-60, white. Famous fashion designer, Tibby's best friend.
Tibby McCullough- Female, 50-60, white. Wife of Jack, Mother of Spencer. Best friend of Hank
Jack McCullough-Male, 50-60, white. Husband of Tibby, Father of Spencer. High powered lawyer in New York.
Spencer McCullough- 25-27, white. Daughter of Tibby and Jack. She is a lawyer. She is getting married.
Marietta Claypoole-70-80, White. Mother of Tibby and Grandmother of Spencer. She is a rich woman.
This play has a lot to do with place in society and how issues are viewed by high society. The play talks about how Marietta, Hank, Tibby and Jack are all "wasps". This means they are white and wealthy from a good family. Myra is a maid but she refers to herself as a white woman in the text. Jack and Tibby refer to themselves as white as well. The only character that never calls herself white is Spencer. She does call herself "privileged" but if a director wanted to, he could cast a Black, Asian, or Hispanic actress as Spencer because sometimes wealthy couples adopt children of any race. It is the directors choice.
Others may say that Hank is not related to the family so he may be any race but, he is supposed to be based on a current famous American male fashion designer. Currently there are no famous fashion designers of "Hank"s type of sportswear that are male in America that are Black, Asian or Latino, they are all white. So in my opinion he must be a white male in order to fit the story correctly. Their is no way the story could work if the family was not a "wasp" family with the exception of Spencer. They must all be played by the correct gender as well. There are many men and women jokes and gender specific guidelines, the show would not work if cast otherwise.
The Facts: Exegesis
1. Fifth Avenue- Fifth Avenue is known to be a very wealthy street in Manhattan, Therefore this family is very wealthy
2.Hank- The character of Hank is loosely based on fashion desinger Bill Blass who died in 2002.
3.Brokeback Mountain- One of the most famous gay themed movies in 2005, because of the main stream play it recived and the names it had including Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal and Randy Quaid.
4.Vera Wang- One of, if not the most famous wedding dress designer in America.
5. Donna Karan- Fashion designer known for her sportswear.
6. Valentino- Fashion designer known for his gowns.
7. Ralph Lauren- Fashion desinger known for his classic sportwear.
8.LaCoste- Sportwear company known for polo shirts.
9. Rockefeller Center- Between 48th and 51st Streets in Manhattan which includes office bulidings, shopping and a skating rink.
10. Monsieur Hadlee- When Myra speaks in a French Accent she calls Hank this, meaning Mr. Hadley.
11.X- Box- A video game system
12. Hazel- The maid of a 1961 show of the same name.
13. Bear- A gay slang word used to describe an older gay man that is larger framed and sometimes has body hair.
14.Neiman Marcus- A high end department store
15.Prada- Famous fashion label
16. Cherry Jones - Famous actress best known for Broadway
17. Nathan Lane- Famous actor known for Broadway and Film
18.Rosie- The robot maid of The Jetsons.
19. Ikea- Sells home, kitchen and bedding suppiles
20. Vogue- Famous fashion magazine
2.Hank- The character of Hank is loosely based on fashion desinger Bill Blass who died in 2002.
3.Brokeback Mountain- One of the most famous gay themed movies in 2005, because of the main stream play it recived and the names it had including Heath Ledger, Jake Gyllenhaal and Randy Quaid.
4.Vera Wang- One of, if not the most famous wedding dress designer in America.
5. Donna Karan- Fashion designer known for her sportswear.
6. Valentino- Fashion designer known for his gowns.
7. Ralph Lauren- Fashion desinger known for his classic sportwear.
8.LaCoste- Sportwear company known for polo shirts.
9. Rockefeller Center- Between 48th and 51st Streets in Manhattan which includes office bulidings, shopping and a skating rink.
10. Monsieur Hadlee- When Myra speaks in a French Accent she calls Hank this, meaning Mr. Hadley.
11.X- Box- A video game system
12. Hazel- The maid of a 1961 show of the same name.
13. Bear- A gay slang word used to describe an older gay man that is larger framed and sometimes has body hair.
14.Neiman Marcus- A high end department store
15.Prada- Famous fashion label
16. Cherry Jones - Famous actress best known for Broadway
17. Nathan Lane- Famous actor known for Broadway and Film
18.Rosie- The robot maid of The Jetsons.
19. Ikea- Sells home, kitchen and bedding suppiles
20. Vogue- Famous fashion magazine
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The Facts: Basics
"Regrets Only"
Paul Rudnick
English
2007
Comedy, Satire, Farce/50 Pages/2 Acts
Dramatists
Royalty Fee(s): 75 Dollars per performance
Cast Breakdown: 2 Men, 4 Women
Time and Setting: New york, Ny, (Fifth Avenue, Upper East Side Manhatthan), The Present
Brief Bio of Author-
PAUL RUDNICK (Playwright) plays have been produced both on and off Broadway and around the world. Currently his play The New Century is being staged at Lincoln Center Theatre and his most recent work before was Regrets Only at Manhattan Theatre Club, starring Christine Baranski and George Grizzard. His other plays include Valhalla, The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told, I Hate Hamlet and Jeffrey, for which he won an Obie, an Outer Critics Circle Award and the John Gassner Playwrighting Award. His novels are Social Disease and I'll Take It, both published by Knopf. His articles and essays have appeared in The New Yorker, Esquire, Vogue, Vanity Fair and The New York Times. His is rumored to be quite close to Premiere Magazine's film critic, Libby Gelman-Waxner, whose collected columns have been published under the title If You Ask Me. His screenplays include Addams Family Values, the screen adaptation of Jeffrey and In & Out.
(http://www.americantheatrewing.org/biography/detail/paul_rudnick)
About The Show:
The plot is set in the motion one momentous evening in a lavish Upper East Side apartment. Socialite Tibby McCullough is preparing to go out with her best friend, legendary gay designer Hank Hadley, whose companion of nearly 40 years has recently died. Tibby's daughter Spencer, an ambitious lawyer, comes home and announces her engagement; minutes later, her father Jack, a wildly rich, liberal New York lawyer, gets a call from the President of the United States to help craft a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage. When Tibby and Spencer support Jack's decision to go to Washington, Hank decides to take action -- in a very unusual way.
The play is a miraculous marriage of caricature and character. Rudnick has managed to create six comically extreme people -- including Myra, the McCullough's Jewish maid, and Tibby's shallow mother, Marietta -- who also exhibit genuine human emotions. While the quips fly fast and furiously, Rudnick so effectively plots the piece that the jokes serve a thematic point. Tibby, who's essentially a silly society wife, is eventually given stature. Jack is humbled but not broken; rather, he is educated. Even Spencer and Marietta have their epiphanies.
Rudnick has written a smart play with a several rich conflicts waiting to explode. The only question for the audience is whether he will find a way to tie all of his points and plot strands together before the final blackout -- and the answer is a resounding yes. His major plot twist is no more realistic than his comically overdrawn characters, but that's the brilliance of the piece; the characters and the plot are in perfect balance.
(http://www.theatermania.com/content/news.cfm/story/9495)
Paul Rudnick
English
2007
Comedy, Satire, Farce/50 Pages/2 Acts
Dramatists
Royalty Fee(s): 75 Dollars per performance
Cast Breakdown: 2 Men, 4 Women
Time and Setting: New york, Ny, (Fifth Avenue, Upper East Side Manhatthan), The Present
Brief Bio of Author-
PAUL RUDNICK (Playwright) plays have been produced both on and off Broadway and around the world. Currently his play The New Century is being staged at Lincoln Center Theatre and his most recent work before was Regrets Only at Manhattan Theatre Club, starring Christine Baranski and George Grizzard. His other plays include Valhalla, The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told, I Hate Hamlet and Jeffrey, for which he won an Obie, an Outer Critics Circle Award and the John Gassner Playwrighting Award. His novels are Social Disease and I'll Take It, both published by Knopf. His articles and essays have appeared in The New Yorker, Esquire, Vogue, Vanity Fair and The New York Times. His is rumored to be quite close to Premiere Magazine's film critic, Libby Gelman-Waxner, whose collected columns have been published under the title If You Ask Me. His screenplays include Addams Family Values, the screen adaptation of Jeffrey and In & Out.
(http://www.americantheatrewing.org/biography/detail/paul_rudnick)
About The Show:
The plot is set in the motion one momentous evening in a lavish Upper East Side apartment. Socialite Tibby McCullough is preparing to go out with her best friend, legendary gay designer Hank Hadley, whose companion of nearly 40 years has recently died. Tibby's daughter Spencer, an ambitious lawyer, comes home and announces her engagement; minutes later, her father Jack, a wildly rich, liberal New York lawyer, gets a call from the President of the United States to help craft a constitutional amendment that would ban gay marriage. When Tibby and Spencer support Jack's decision to go to Washington, Hank decides to take action -- in a very unusual way.
The play is a miraculous marriage of caricature and character. Rudnick has managed to create six comically extreme people -- including Myra, the McCullough's Jewish maid, and Tibby's shallow mother, Marietta -- who also exhibit genuine human emotions. While the quips fly fast and furiously, Rudnick so effectively plots the piece that the jokes serve a thematic point. Tibby, who's essentially a silly society wife, is eventually given stature. Jack is humbled but not broken; rather, he is educated. Even Spencer and Marietta have their epiphanies.
Rudnick has written a smart play with a several rich conflicts waiting to explode. The only question for the audience is whether he will find a way to tie all of his points and plot strands together before the final blackout -- and the answer is a resounding yes. His major plot twist is no more realistic than his comically overdrawn characters, but that's the brilliance of the piece; the characters and the plot are in perfect balance.
(http://www.theatermania.com/content/news.cfm/story/9495)
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Dramaturgy as a Profession
1. Centerstage
Lort B and C
Baltimore, Ma
Gavin Witt, Dramaturg
2.Peoples Light and Theatre Company
Lort D
Malvern, PA
Alda Cortese, Literary Manager
3.Lark Play Development Center
Lort D
New York, NY
Suzy Fay, Dramaturgy
4. Seattle Children's Theatre
Lort TYA
Seattle, WA
Torrie McDonald, Literary/ Publications Manager
5. The Wilma Theater
Lort C
Philadelphia, PA
Walter Bilderback, Dramaturg/Literary Manager
6. Clarience Borwn Theatre Company
Lort D
Knoxville, TN
Klaus VanDenBerg, Dramaturg
7.South Coast Repertory
Lort B
Costa Mesa, CA
Megan Monaghan, Literary Manager
8. Artists Repertory Theater
Lort SPT
Portland, OR
Stephanie Mulligan, Literary Manager
9. Alliance Theatre at Woodruff
Lort D,B
Atlanta, GA
Carlyn Aquiliane, Literary Manger/Dramaturg
10. City Theatre Company
Lort D
Pittsburgh, PA
Carlyn Aquiline, Literary Manager/Dramaturg
Lort B and C
Baltimore, Ma
Gavin Witt, Dramaturg
2.Peoples Light and Theatre Company
Lort D
Malvern, PA
Alda Cortese, Literary Manager
3.Lark Play Development Center
Lort D
New York, NY
Suzy Fay, Dramaturgy
4. Seattle Children's Theatre
Lort TYA
Seattle, WA
Torrie McDonald, Literary/ Publications Manager
5. The Wilma Theater
Lort C
Philadelphia, PA
Walter Bilderback, Dramaturg/Literary Manager
6. Clarience Borwn Theatre Company
Lort D
Knoxville, TN
Klaus VanDenBerg, Dramaturg
7.South Coast Repertory
Lort B
Costa Mesa, CA
Megan Monaghan, Literary Manager
8. Artists Repertory Theater
Lort SPT
Portland, OR
Stephanie Mulligan, Literary Manager
9. Alliance Theatre at Woodruff
Lort D,B
Atlanta, GA
Carlyn Aquiliane, Literary Manger/Dramaturg
10. City Theatre Company
Lort D
Pittsburgh, PA
Carlyn Aquiline, Literary Manager/Dramaturg
Graduate Degree Programs
1. The Univeristy of Iowa
MFA in Dramaturgy
Iowa City, IA
Three Year Program
(The last year is your Thesis on a new Play)
2. Uinversity of Ottawa
MFA in Theatre Theory and Dramaturgy
Ottawa, Canada
Two Year Program
(May lead into PhD studies)
3.Hunter College
New York, NY
MFA in Dramaturgy
Two Year Program
4. University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
MFA Playwriting/Dramaturgy
Three year Program
5.Roosevelt College
Chicago, IL
MFA in Directing/Dramaturgy
Two Year Program
6. York University
Toronto, Canada
MFA in Dance Dramaturgy
Two Years
7. Mary Baldwin College
Staunton, VA
MFA Emphasis in Dramaturgy
Two Years
8.University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa,AL
MFA in Playwriting/Dramaturgy
Three Years
9. Towson University
Towson, Maryland
MFA in Dramaturgy
Three year program
10. University of Hull
United Kingdom
Master’s in Performance Translation and Dramaturgy
Two Years
MFA in Dramaturgy
Iowa City, IA
Three Year Program
(The last year is your Thesis on a new Play)
2. Uinversity of Ottawa
MFA in Theatre Theory and Dramaturgy
Ottawa, Canada
Two Year Program
(May lead into PhD studies)
3.Hunter College
New York, NY
MFA in Dramaturgy
Two Year Program
4. University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
MFA Playwriting/Dramaturgy
Three year Program
5.Roosevelt College
Chicago, IL
MFA in Directing/Dramaturgy
Two Year Program
6. York University
Toronto, Canada
MFA in Dance Dramaturgy
Two Years
7. Mary Baldwin College
Staunton, VA
MFA Emphasis in Dramaturgy
Two Years
8.University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa,AL
MFA in Playwriting/Dramaturgy
Three Years
9. Towson University
Towson, Maryland
MFA in Dramaturgy
Three year program
10. University of Hull
United Kingdom
Master’s in Performance Translation and Dramaturgy
Two Years
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
What is Dramaturgy?
Best Online Def.
-Dramaturgy is the art of dramatic composition and the representation of the main elements of drama on the stage.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dramaturgy)
Best Dictionary Def.
- the art or technique of dramatic composition and theatrical representation
(http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dramaturgy)
Most Notable or Unusual Def.
-The role of a dramaturge can vary depending on the needs of individual productions.
(http://www.usq.edu.au/performancecentre/schoolresources/fivewomen/dramaturgy.htm)
Historical Context
-the art or technique of dramatic composition or theatrical representation. In this sense English dramaturgy and French dramaturgie are both borrowed from German Dramaturgie, a word used by the German dramatist and critic Gotthold Lessing in an influential series of essays entitled Hamburgische Dramaturgie (“The Hamburg Dramaturgy”), published from 1767 to 1769. The word is from the Greek dramatourgía, “a dramatic composition” or “action of a play.”
(http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/171026/dramaturgy#)
Job Description
-A thorough text/story analysis.
-Research into the prior productions of the text as needed.
-Historical research of various sorts.
-Attendance at at least one quarter of the rehearsals, the first read-through, and as many run-throughs as possible.
-Oral or written notes for the director.
-Attendance at some preproduction meetings.
-A loyalty to the basic mission and ideas of the production and the text. Maintaining that loyalty in the midst of technical difficulties.
-Program contributions.
-Flexibility.
(http://www.dramaturgy.net/dramaturgy/what/Job.html)
-reading and assessment of new plays.
-in production, works primarily with director but may also be a resource for actors, designers and technicians.
-consultation with artistic director on the development of artistic policy and repertoire.
the supervision of the public pronouncements of the theatre insofar as they reflect its repertoire and aesthetics.
-preparation of texts for performance. this is the main work of a dramaturg, can include:
-revising/editing scripts
-adapting non-theatrical text into a script
-translation of scripts from other languages
-advisor for playwrights writing or workshopping a new script.
-liaison between playwright and director
-"official representative" of audience to the theatre company
-writing program notes
-writing of mission statements about artistic goals
(http://www.dramaturgy.net/dramaturgy/what/List.html)
My Own Def.
- A dramaturgy is a director's helper in the fact checking and history of the production they are doing. They can do anything from research about a certain location to researching past and present productions. Their duties vary depending on the need of the director.
-Dramaturgy is the art of dramatic composition and the representation of the main elements of drama on the stage.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dramaturgy)
Best Dictionary Def.
- the art or technique of dramatic composition and theatrical representation
(http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dramaturgy)
Most Notable or Unusual Def.
-The role of a dramaturge can vary depending on the needs of individual productions.
(http://www.usq.edu.au/performancecentre/schoolresources/fivewomen/dramaturgy.htm)
Historical Context
-the art or technique of dramatic composition or theatrical representation. In this sense English dramaturgy and French dramaturgie are both borrowed from German Dramaturgie, a word used by the German dramatist and critic Gotthold Lessing in an influential series of essays entitled Hamburgische Dramaturgie (“The Hamburg Dramaturgy”), published from 1767 to 1769. The word is from the Greek dramatourgía, “a dramatic composition” or “action of a play.”
(http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/171026/dramaturgy#)
Job Description
-A thorough text/story analysis.
-Research into the prior productions of the text as needed.
-Historical research of various sorts.
-Attendance at at least one quarter of the rehearsals, the first read-through, and as many run-throughs as possible.
-Oral or written notes for the director.
-Attendance at some preproduction meetings.
-A loyalty to the basic mission and ideas of the production and the text. Maintaining that loyalty in the midst of technical difficulties.
-Program contributions.
-Flexibility.
(http://www.dramaturgy.net/dramaturgy/what/Job.html)
-reading and assessment of new plays.
-in production, works primarily with director but may also be a resource for actors, designers and technicians.
-consultation with artistic director on the development of artistic policy and repertoire.
the supervision of the public pronouncements of the theatre insofar as they reflect its repertoire and aesthetics.
-preparation of texts for performance. this is the main work of a dramaturg, can include:
-revising/editing scripts
-adapting non-theatrical text into a script
-translation of scripts from other languages
-advisor for playwrights writing or workshopping a new script.
-liaison between playwright and director
-"official representative" of audience to the theatre company
-writing program notes
-writing of mission statements about artistic goals
(http://www.dramaturgy.net/dramaturgy/what/List.html)
My Own Def.
- A dramaturgy is a director's helper in the fact checking and history of the production they are doing. They can do anything from research about a certain location to researching past and present productions. Their duties vary depending on the need of the director.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
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