What is blocking?
Blocking is any movement an actor makes on stage.
As a teacher I break blocking up into these categories: (there are exceptions to these of course but for purposes of this article we will keep it basic)
Entrances, an entrance is any time that an actor comes into view of the audience.
Exits, this is any time an actor leaves the view of the audience.
Crosses, Any time an actor moves from one part of the stage to another they are said to cross to that other position, such as Billy crosses stage left.
Stage business, stage business could be loosely defined as any handling of props or manipulation of scenery such as answering a telephone, reading a book, opening a door or window, etc.
Most directors will give their actors at least some blocking instructions. It is usually a good idea if the actors make notes in their scripts so that blocking can be memorized along with dialogue.
In blocking a scene beginning directors may do well following the blocking notes that already exist in most published play scripts until they can develop their own sense of it. Blocking is used in many ways to help heighten the drama, or comedy of a piece.
Remember to keep your blocking simple but varied. Unless every one has to enter from the same side of the stage mix it up a little. Try using levels, both in your set, and in blocking. Have characters stand, sit, or kneel trying to keep everyone looking as natural as possible.
Use props and set manipulation carefully it can move your story along, but it could also create distractions. For more information see articles on Stage Directions and Point of Focus.
Blocking is any movement an actor makes on stage.
As a teacher I break blocking up into these categories: (there are exceptions to these of course but for purposes of this article we will keep it basic)
Entrances, an entrance is any time that an actor comes into view of the audience.
Exits, this is any time an actor leaves the view of the audience.
Crosses, Any time an actor moves from one part of the stage to another they are said to cross to that other position, such as Billy crosses stage left.
Stage business, stage business could be loosely defined as any handling of props or manipulation of scenery such as answering a telephone, reading a book, opening a door or window, etc.
Most directors will give their actors at least some blocking instructions. It is usually a good idea if the actors make notes in their scripts so that blocking can be memorized along with dialogue.
In blocking a scene beginning directors may do well following the blocking notes that already exist in most published play scripts until they can develop their own sense of it. Blocking is used in many ways to help heighten the drama, or comedy of a piece.
Remember to keep your blocking simple but varied. Unless every one has to enter from the same side of the stage mix it up a little. Try using levels, both in your set, and in blocking. Have characters stand, sit, or kneel trying to keep everyone looking as natural as possible.
Use props and set manipulation carefully it can move your story along, but it could also create distractions. For more information see articles on Stage Directions and Point of Focus.
All blocking should be notated and added to the prompt book, either by the director or, if you are fortunate enough to have one available, by the stage manager. Make sure to get accurate notation to avoid confusion especially if there are changes.
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