The Director Sector

Last night was our first blocking rehearsal for Devilvet’s Devils Don’t Forget.  As assistant director, I just waited and watched and kept my own counsel while I watched Devilvet block the first few scenes.  

And let me just say this, folks.  This show is going to be good.  

The actors came in ready to work and acted professionally from the moment they entered the room until the moment they left.  And even before and after, I’d imagine.

I’ve mostly been on the receiving end of directors’ instructions, but during the times I’ve been behind the wheel, so to speak, it’s been difficult to get actors to remember staging directions, to get them off-book and to develop that chemistry that performers need to bring that extra jazz and energy to the stage. 

Scene after scene, Devilvet gave instructions and didn’t have to repeat himself.   The chemistry between the lead guy and the girl was palpable, even as the pair held scripts in their hands!  By the time we’d blocked the scene, they’d mostly put down the scripts or, if they held them, didn’t look at them often.  They remembered the blocking without mistakes and adapted to Devilvet’s direction instantly.  Let’s just say I’m very impressed.

Don’t let me mislead you.  There were plenty of things that came up that need to be worked on — it was the first blocking rehearsal, after all!  The actors still had scripts in their hands, they were still working out the kinks and quirks in their characters, and they still had to conform to Devilvet’s vision.  However, the potential is staggering.

Since I’ve never worked with Devilvet before, I decided to keep my trap shut, watch, and shared my observations after the rehearsal.  Good choice, I think.

Regardless, I’m looking forward to helping Devilvet shape this show into something you guys would be excited about and that will leave a… memorable… impression upon you.

Until next time.