One-Sided Love: The writer at rehearsals

I had the pleasure going to one of the rehearsal sessions the other day to see how the team was doing with One-Sided Love. At first, I didn’t know what to expect and I was very nervous to tell you the truth. I’ve never sat back and not been in creative control (I’m not a control freak, honest). From the get go I knew we had a great cast. The energy and the chemistry with one another while doing the warm ups with Caitlin and Zara was absolutely fantastic and I was thinking to myself, bloody heck we haven’t even started rehearsals yet and already the room is buzzing. From then on the energy kept going throughout the 4 hour rehearsal, while being professional there was laughs upon laughs. It was amazing to see every actor firstly, enjoying themselves and secondly, passionate to bring their characters to life.

I’m not one of these writers who will say “no changes to the script.” Not a chance, that’s not me, If changes need to be made, then they should be made. Since I’ve given my script, Caitlin and Zara have made slight changes which has made it even better than it was. Such as, subtle changes to how the actors speak/speech. Asking the actors, would your character say that, if not what word would he/she use. This method has made a huge difference and filled me with confidence that these two very talented directors know their stuff and I shouldn’t be worrying at all, which I’m certainly not (This is a lie).

After just six rehearsals, Caitlin and Zara have created an atmosphere in the rehearsal room that is relaxed and great to be in. I’m gutted that I’m not there every week but I would probably get on their nerves so it’s best I stay away! It was great to see a few scenes acted out in front of me and it was a fantastic experience to see them come to life in front of my eyes. They were how I pictured them to be when I wrote them.

Lew, Sophie, Steve, Deborah, Emma and Daryl. Thank you so much for dedicating your time to One-Sided Love, it means so much. I can’t wait to see the final piece in August, ou are all going to smash it. Well Done!!!

Words by Christopher Woodward
Photo’s by Andrew Smith
Design by Joe Harper