Run-through

Definition

A run-through is a rehearsal where the entire performance is performed from start to finish without interruptions, often to gauge timing, flow, and the overall cohesion of the production. This type of rehearsal helps identify areas that need improvement and allows the director and cast to see how the elements come together in real time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Run-throughs are typically done after the initial rehearsals and before the final dress rehearsal, serving as a crucial step in performance preparation.
2. They help the director assess the pacing of the play and make adjustments as needed to ensure that the production runs smoothly.
3. Actors use run-throughs to become more familiar with their lines and movements in context, building confidence for performances.
4. During a run-through, notes from the director may lead to adjustments in blocking or character interpretation based on what is observed.
5. Run-throughs can also serve as a morale booster for the cast, allowing them to experience the full production and celebrate their collective efforts.

Review Questions

• What is the purpose of a run-through in the rehearsal process, and how does it benefit both actors and directors?
  • The purpose of a run-through is to perform the entire play from beginning to end without interruptions, allowing both actors and directors to see how all elements of the production work together. For actors, it provides a chance to refine their performances and build confidence in their roles. For directors, it serves as an opportunity to evaluate pacing and flow, making necessary adjustments based on what they observe during this full performance.
• How does a run-through differ from a tech rehearsal, and why are both important in preparing for a performance?
  • A run-through focuses solely on the actors' performances without technical elements, while a tech rehearsal integrates lighting, sound, and set changes into the performance. Both are essential because they address different aspects of the production; run-throughs help refine acting and staging, whereas tech rehearsals ensure that all technical components function seamlessly with the live performance. Together, they prepare the cast for a polished final presentation.
• Evaluate how run-throughs can influence the final outcome of a theatrical performance, considering both actor development and directorial decisions.
  • Run-throughs can significantly influence the final outcome of a theatrical performance by providing critical insights into actor development and directing choices. Through these rehearsals, actors gain invaluable experience that enhances their performances, while directors can make informed decisions about pacing, blocking adjustments, and character interpretations based on real-time observations. This collaborative process ensures that both individual performances and the overall production are refined, ultimately leading to a stronger and more cohesive presentation.

Related terms

Blocking: The precise staging of actors in order to facilitate the performance and communicate the story effectively.

Cue: A signal for an actor or technician to begin a specific action, such as speaking a line or changing a lighting cue.

Tech Rehearsal: A rehearsal focused on integrating technical elements like lighting, sound, and set changes with the actors' performances.