TOAST, or Theatre on a Shoestring, is a new initiative from Hook Players.
Initially an experiment, TOAST will convene once a month in the same way we do for play readings. However, the emphasis for TOAST is on developing theatre skills - acting, directing, producing, technical etc. Each month, a short show that has been in production for the previous month will be put on in front of anyone who turns up.
There are several aims for TOAST:
- Anyone can attend TOAST, either as audience or involved in the production
- Everyone who wants to be involved can be - the production will be moulded around those who want to take part
- Performances may take the form of a rehearsed line reading; line-learning isn't necessarily required
- As little money will be spent on productions and meetings as possible
- People who want to try new skills will get coaching or mentoring
- To provide production experience for those who are not cast in the current main production
- Eventually, say in 18 months' time, we'd look to develop one or more shows into festival entries
- Those who come through TOAST will have been able to develop their interest and skills in the core roles that Hook Players needs, so we have a large body of "trained" members
So, if someone wants to try directing, but is intimidated by the size of a main production, they can start out small by taking on part (or all) of one of the monthly shows. Eventually we'd look to expand this to other technical areas, depending on demand.
This isn't a replacement for play readings, or for workshops, but it's intended to help the group grow and keep members involved and active, especially over the months where we're not performing. Two core things should really be noted: - The intention is that it will cost next to nothing to run; we make use of the resources we already have. It's also supposed to be complementary to the normal shows, rather than compete.