Here are a couple other threads that deal with take-overs, and may have some helpful advice.
http://smnetwork.org/forum/index.php/topic,4246.msg26164.html#msg26164http://smnetwork.org/forum/index.php/topic,1491.msg8790.html#msg8790I’d caution against assuming the director is “difficult” just because the SM left the show. They may have had their own personal reasons for leaving. If you have worked with the director before and characterize her as difficult yourself, I guess that’s another story. But it’s often the case that different personalities just mesh better than others.
Basically avoiding assumptions of any kind, and instead asking lots of questions of those already involved with the show, will probably serve you well. Talk with the director about how the current show matches up with his staging of the version you worked on together. Find out what the director’s expectations are for you; they may be pretty reasonable and anticipate a learning curve as you get to know the show. It’s no secret that you are new, so don’t be shy about asking actors or production staff what they have been doing. People are usually willing to help the New Kid, especially since it means you’ll be in a better position to help them. Humility and humor will go a long way, as will admitting and correcting any mistakes you are bound to make.
As far as the other person’s notes, I’d go ahead and try to contact the first SM to see if they will explain things to you. Just because they left the show doesn’t mean they would want to leave the new SM (or cast) hanging.
One thing I would try to do to build relationships is to learn people’s names and faces before I get to rehearsal. Between facebook, headshots, and some deductive reasoning, it’s not too hard to do, and I find it makes people feel like you care and have put in some preparation when you can address them by name. Plus it’s easier to catch on when you know who is who.