This session was the second full day of blocking. As the ensemble works on staging their pieces, they worked together to work through challenges before the dress rehearsal. 

After chatting, check-ins and the ring, the ensemble worked through entrances and movement for several shorter pieces. Two ensemble members playfully argued about the use of microphones. One participant encouraged a performer to use a microphone during her piece, but she insisted that she could project without it. But the participant emphasized how the microphone affects the energy of the piece:

“I’m not saying you’re not projecting, it just feels good”

The exchange ended in laughter and the blocking continued.

With just a few more rehearsals until the show, music was another major focus for the larger piece. Participants discussed how to incorporate the songs into the production with limited rehearsal time. The group worked together to figure out when to play music and when to sing a cappella. One actor felt worried about singing a solo during the show, seeking guidance from the writer. The writer encouraged her to be confident and improvise if she needed to. 

As the evening continued, the ensemble finished blocking the second part and began working through a few pieces in the third. Along the way, participants supported one another through moments of uncertainty, offered suggestions, and worked together to solve the practical challenges of putting the production together. 

The ensemble closed the evening with the ring, having taken another step toward bringing the full production together.