1) Set a script-freeze date and stick to it. 2) Set a script-freeze date and stick to it. 3) Set a script-freeze date and stick to it.

Throughout my career as an arts teacher and theater director, I've learned to turn unexpected changes into creative opportunities. Last-minute alterations, such as script adjustments, are common and challenge me to find solutions that preserve the essence and impact of the message, especially on complex topics like racial literacy and environmental preservation. In these moments, having a flexible plan and encouraging collaboration are essential; students contribute ideas, and together we overcome obstacles that enrich the narrative. This process requires resilience and quick adaptations, but it always strengthens the final result, making it more authentic and meaningful.

Before the process even begins, setting real expectations with your team is a must. That being said proper planning and actioning can be a great tool in avoiding last minute changes that will result in major technical deviations. That however is an ideal situation. If and when an issue arises where the show needs to be altered never make it the problem of your team. Have a collaborative sit down with your team and come up with a game plan, all of your team are professionals at what they do, They were hired for a reason. Ask them, simply ask them what they think they can do in the time allotted to solve the issue and what is the time frame ?

Timing is everything! When are these script changes happening ? This is important. If the script changes are at the beginning of the rehearsal period, try them out and see how the actors move and play it. Be nice if it doesn't work and carefully explain why. If it is in the middle of the rehearsal timeline, again try it out and get feedback from those that know the play. Playwrights want there plays to succeed. If it is in production week, unless it is a complete disaster, hell no. The actors have to solidify what they already have in order to go into previews. Let them get a performance or two under their belts then introduce changes. Directors know their casts and playwright. Just look at all sides. Cooler heads prevail.

Sometimes, on set the only plan is that things will change. Resiliency and resourcefulness will make the difference in how the change will impact the production. Ask yourself, What can we do to go around this challenge? Is there another way this can be done (shot from another angle, obscure the “missing” continuity item, use a boom instead of a mic on clothing)? Oh, you want a special effect that isn’t in the script, let me see what I have to create that will emulate what you are looking for? I once had to create brain matter from pretzels and tye dye colors to fling on a wall. It worked. Lights don’t work? Can this be lightened up in post? Does it add to the tone and mood where other shots can be altered to incorporate the darkness?

When I work on projects, I let the directorial approach drive the technical and not the other way round Whatever changes occur will eventually speak to the technical

Simple: work closely with producer/AD to see what’s possible for time/money. Then figure it out! That’s your job! And that’s the fun of working in new plays!

This is constant in my field. I am a person who tends to go with the flow and accept changes as they come. Take a few minutes to understand the change and decide what the best path is to create what needs to be created for the new changes. It always good to take a moment and breathe and not to stress out. You know what you are doing and can overcome any obstacle

First of all, have a detailed plan for any stage of production, in mind and better on paper. - Later, when you face changes you know all before and afters and how current change will affect it. - Is easier to adapt. - Take a minute to find best solution - Don't forget to write down the changes Changes happen on all stages and departments, it's normal. Production is a living creature 😄