Did
you know? This production of Hamlet began with
an extended rehearsal period (approximately 10-12 weeks) so
that the Company could have an intense programme of experimentation
and training with a number of specialists. This was influenced
by the working methods of Eastern European theatre where Michael
Boyd, the director, has spent some time and where they spend
nearer three months in rehearsal. British Repertory theatre
might have had two to four weeks to rehearse a full-length
Shakespeare play; Shakespeare's own company, using quite different
working practices, would have had only about half a day!
RSC actors may be performing in two or three different productions
during their time with the Company. This will mean on average
a varied week: maybe rehearsing one play while performing
another at night, or performing a matinee of one play and
an evening performance of another. |