The Preparation

Our first task actually began before we arrived. In a volley of e-mails and phone calls, we agreed upon a set of "rules" – a process by which we could create a show. Three of us had agreed to be writer / directors, each responsible for writing and directing one 15-minute play. One of us would act as Commissar (it's kind of like a coordinator) for the whole group. The Commissar would decide how the show will be presented, and oversee the tech rehearsal. The rest of us had agreed to be performers. The performers would be randomly split into three groups, to serve at the will of the writer / directors.

“I was adequately prepared for the weekend because I had no idea what to expect.
Which was perfect.”
- Tammy (Performer)

Before we arrived, each of us had submitted a few neutral lines of text. A neutral line is any line of dialogue that could have multiple meanings; for example, "I thought I told you I'd take care of it" could mean many different things. We hoped to use these lines as inspiration for our writing.

We each showed up with a bag of props and costumes to share with the group. We came in comfortable clothes, and we came ready to play! With these few constraints, we dove head-first into the evening. Only faith in our process (and the pressure of a live audience!) could carry us through to the end…