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In service of our mission to support diverse voices and develop new
works we will be attempting an evolutionary theatrical experiment. We have consistently
heard from playwrights that while they have access to readings and workshops, what they
lack are opportunities to get their early work on its feet in front of audiences with time to
rework between each presentation. With this advice in mind, we have created a rehearsal
and performance schedule that does exactly that. What you see is a lab presentation seeking to alter the development process. The BE Company is firmly
dedicated to the craft of storytelling and we will continue to investigate how best to bring a
new play from page to stage.
Each play has a two to three week workshop process, creating
a safe environment for the writer, director, cast, and designers to experiment with the various
permutations of the script and ensure that the story the playwright wants told is being
communicated. In addition, the process will incorporate a public component. Half way
through the workshop, the cast will have three nights in front of an audience. The team will
then go back into the rehearsal room, rework the play with the insights provided from the
initial performances and then close with three more public presentations.
The presentation you will see is a cross between a reading and a full blown
performance. While book in hand, it does include basic design and staging elements. The
audience is an integral part of the production process, and we want to ensure an evening
of entertainment, in addition to a developmental tool. Your comments are fundamental to the process and we
whole heartedly appreciate your joining us in this experiment.