Hi! My name is Anna Toaze, and I play the role of Ana in The Clean House. Here at the Jackman, the cast and crew have been working away, behind closed doors. But only until now. Today, we’re going to welcome you into the rehearsal process, to get an inside peek into how it all happens.
Everyday, the actors arrive early to begin their warm ups. This varies day to day. Typically, the actors use techniques they’ve learnt here at the University of Windsor, in their classes. Some of those techniques include Michael Chekhov techniques, exercises, stretches to warm up the body and voice, or a group jam and sing along– anything at all that fits the energy of the day.
With such a small cast, we find it important to really connect with each other at the beginning of every rehearsal. Building a strong ensemble helps build a strong show and brings us all onto the same page. This allows us to communicate, play, and be productive together.
After the warm-up, the real work begins. Bringing everyone to the table unites the director, cast, and crew. We can work through any housekeeping and discuss what the plan is for rehearsal. Of course, before we begin rehearsing this wonderfully absurd comedic play, a few jokes are in order!
Once we’ve shared a few chuckles, the work begins. Every rehearsal is different as we tackle different chapters of the characters’ lives. We play, try to get off book, and really clue into the text, examining what each character wants.
There is also the technical aspect of staging, referred to as blocking. How can everyone be seen and heard on stage? There is a great time lapse in the video that shows this process. Check it out to get a better idea of what that might look like. Moreover, we always pay attention to props needed and how furniture will be moved between scenes.
After a short break, lots of hard work and a few more laughs, we finally conclude rehearsal. These days can be long, however, this is the work that helps shape up a wonderful show—a show we hope you will enjoy!