Introduction to Production Project: SYNOPSIS (Visual & Performing Arts Coursework)

PURPOSE
The purpose of this project is to gain some experience determining the production needs of a show from reading the script. The script will supply a great deal of information as to why, where, how many, etc.
METHOD
Read the script of “Lend Me a Tenor”. From the script I want you to get a good feel for what the play is about. You will need to write a synopsis of the play to show that you understand what is going on and then I want you pull out all the production needs, getting as specific as you can, without having to actually design anything. Read the script through once to get the story and feel of the play. Then read it as many more times as you need to get out the information I am asking for.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Some information will be obvious, such as if a character answers the phone you know a phone must be added to the prop list. Other information will be hidden. You might have to deduce a little.
The set is described in pretty good detail. You just need to list the characteristics of the set. Things such as: Number of rooms, what is the room used for, any special characteristics of the room, how many doors, where the doors lead to, does where the door leads to need to be seen by the audience, which way the doors open, number of windows, what does the audience see through the windows, etc. The main furnishings found in the room should be mentioned in this section and included in the props list.
Sometimes a character will wear the same costume throughout an entire play but most of the time, not. Look for where a character is coming from or going to. This might give you an idea of what they are wearing. Are there lines in the script where one character says something about another character’s costume?
Determine basic lighting needs. List where the action is taking place, time of day, any windows to have light come through, special lighting effects such as lightning, etc.
List what sounds are needed as called for in the script and where the sounds would come from. Where the sound comes from might be considered a prop, such as a radio. Door knocks need to be on the list, even if they are done live by actors. This makes sure they are not left out.
Make up a prop list from all props mentioned in the script. Be as specific as you can as to how the prop is used, who uses the prop, what the prop needs to do, and where it is placed on stage.
REPORT
Write a synopsis of the play. Be detailed in terms of a character’s personality and motivation since they will have a bearing on why they are doing what they are doing. Then start making lists, on separate pages for each category (set, costumes, lights, sound, and props), of production elements that appear in the script. I think it is easiest to go through the script looking for needs in only one category at a time. List the needs of each category as determined by the script, giving page numbers where the information was found. Give a brief description of the element as to what it is, who uses it, and how it is used in the play. Move page by page through the script.