Studio Production: Live Rehearsals & Full run-throughs

Once Del and I had successfully, created a detailed shot list on the script and had finished blocking out the entirety of the show, with regards to:

• Camera Locations
• Contestant Positions
• Camera Movements
• Transitions during 1st half to 2nd changes

We decided it was time to fully run through the show as if we were going Live at the time designated. These practice run through's were hugely beneficial. Not feeling like practices at all, they allowed us to realize a number of different things, such as:

• Any possible continuity errors
• Show Run Time
• Practicing Cues
• Unexpected circumstances (e.g. awkward contestants)
• Audience reactions
• Removing props in between rounds without being in shot
• Introduction of VTs
• Etc.

I found that as a Director I wanted to make myself seen at all times and be as hands on as possible. I tried to refrain from staying in the gallery in between takes and personally talk to each camera operator, floor manager, contestant and talent to make sure they were happy, and if they had any concerns that I could be there to address them or explain. I felt it was just as important for me to be on the studio floor in between takes as any other studio based role as I needed to see what exactly was going on at all times and be confident that everyone on the floor was happy. This also gave me peace of mind as, if I had seen and done the walk-through myself i knew that when we went live i could be confident that the floor was ready to go.

Obviously when live I would be within the gallery cueing and directing the show. I felt that with each full rehearsal my confidence grew more and more. The mistakes i made helped me learn and by starting off at the deep end the pressure made me focus and organize myself so that I would get in the 'zone'.

At first directing from the gallery was something i had never experienced and found it something very difficult do grasp and get my head around but with practice, experience and help from Del. I was able to build my confidence and performance as practices went on, to a point now where I am confident that our actual Live will go well.

Our run throughs with the set and lighting were very eye opening too. Things we hadn't practiced yet like how doors will close, moving around furniture and even lighting changes to be explained to the lighting team had to be conducted.

After a consultation with the lighting team, the change in which we decided on in the second half had to be altered to allow for a better looking display for the lighting. The change was instead of moving over to another section of the set we stayed in the middle of the set and the lighting would change minimally, allowing for a more constantly lit show with less chance of change.

This change turned out to be very good as it meant the cameras did not have to move as much as they would have allowing for coverage to be tighter and less risky.

With the majority of our rehearsals done and the TX date edging close, as a production team we are confident we can pull this off. I am very happy with how our group has pulled together. Our communication has greatly improved and everyone is excelling within their roles. Below is a short video behind the scenes of our rehearsals.