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« on: Aug 20, 2013, 11:55 pm »
Hi, and welcome to SMNetwork,
Don't watch the movie adaptation of a stage production. It is very likely different in script, execution, effects, etc…..
Read the script. Make tons of notes on the script. Each time through the script look at a different technical area. First time through, just read it to see what happens in the show. For example, Noises Off has a huge set change issue that happens twice; and another set issue that happens multiple times in each act. Read through it again, and look at props. List out each prop that is mentioned, where does it appear on stage, where does it come from, where does it end up? Are any props used multiple times? Read it again, and make note of costume issues. Read it again, and make note of actors' entrances/exits. Read it again, look for any odd blocking (for example, maybe a character will make an entrance or perform from somewhere not on stage). Read it again, look for and note any lighting or sound effects. Read it again, and look for ...
Now, you're not going to be actually doing anything directly with most of those lists. But each reading of the script and list you create will teach you the show. And then when Designer X comes to you and asks a question, or when you're sitting in a design meeting, you'll have a sense of how their concern/idea fits into the show.
Best wishes on Noises Off. It is a bear of a show, and done well it is a great show. Rehearsal can be tough, as props require a ton of attention to detail.