Top 10 Questions
Choosing the right play can be daunting. Here are the top 10 questions to ask yourself when selecting a play, especially useful for schools and amateur theatre groups. Read on to discover insights that will help you make the perfect choice for your next production with Theatre Scripts Pro.
Cast considerations
1. Cast: How many actors do I have/want? Age/gender range?
Assess your available talent pool. Consider the number of actors you have, the age ranges, and gender representation needed for various roles. Selecting a script that aligns with your existing resources is crucial for a smooth production. Theatre Scripts Pro offers scripts with varied cast sizes to suit your needs.
Budget basics
2. Budget: What are my royalty, set, and costume limits?
Be realistic about your financial constraints. Factor in royalty fees, set design and construction costs, and costume expenses. Theatre Scripts Pro provides clear and affordable royalty options, making it easier to manage your budget. Browse our collection to find scripts that fit your financial parameters.
Audience appeal
3. Audience: What will your community enjoy and support?
Consider your local audience’s preferences. Think about what themes, genres, and stories will resonate with them. A well-received play can boost community engagement and support for your theatre group. Theatre Scripts Pro offers a diverse catalogue to cater to a wide range of audience tastes.
The core message
4. Message: What theme or conversation do you want to start?
Think about the underlying message you want to convey. A play with a relevant and thought-provoking theme can spark important conversations within your community. Theatre Scripts Pro features scripts that explore a variety of contemporary issues and timeless themes.
Spatial awareness
5. Space: Is it suitable for your stage (thrust, proscenium, black box)?
Assess your performance space. Consider the stage type and how it will impact blocking and set design. Some plays are better suited for certain stage configurations. Theatre Scripts Pro provides stage notes to help you visualize how a script will work in your space.
Technical talents
6. Technical: Can your team handle the required lights/sound/set?
Evaluate your technical capabilities. Consider the complexity of the lighting, sound, and set requirements. Choose a play that aligns with your team's expertise and available equipment. Theatre Scripts Pro includes technical specifications in our script packages.
Rehearsal realities
7. Rehearsal Time: How complex is the text/blocking/music?
Assess the time commitment. Complex scripts with intricate blocking or musical numbers will require more rehearsal time. Be realistic about your team's availability and choose a play that allows for adequate preparation. Theatre Scripts Pro offers scripts with varying levels of complexity.
Contemporary connections
8. Contemporary Relevance: Does it speak to today?
Consider the play's relevance to modern audiences. A script that addresses current social issues or resonates with contemporary values can create a more impactful and engaging experience. Theatre Scripts Pro offers scripts that tackle a wide range of modern themes.
Embrace the challenge
9. Challenge: Will it stretch your company without breaking them?
Strike a balance between challenging your company and ensuring the project is manageable. Choose a script that pushes your team creatively without overwhelming them. Theatre Scripts Pro offers scripts that cater to various skill levels and experience.
Passion project
10. Love: Does the director's team feel passionate about it?
Ensure the director's team is passionate about the project. Enthusiasm and dedication are essential for a successful production. Choose a script that excites and inspires your team. Explore the Theatre Scripts Pro catalogue to find a play your team will love.