What is needed to set a professional play
What do you mean "set"? Do you mean to stage a play? You need professional actors, director, scenic designers, lighting designers, technicians, stage managers, financial backing, a theater, not necessarily in that order. That is, assuming you mean, by "professional," you mean people who make their living doing this, are members of their trade unions, and have experience. But maybe that's not what you mean.
http://smallbusiness.chron.com/start-professional-theater-company-2300.html
Setting up a professional play requires several key elements. Here's a breakdown of what you need:
1. Script: Start with a compelling and well-written script. If you are a playwright, write your own original play. Otherwise, look for published scripts or commission a playwright to create a customized script for your production.
2. Venue: Find a suitable venue for your play. It could be a theater, an auditorium, or any other space that can accommodate the audience and the actors. Consider factors like seating capacity, stage size, technical capabilities, and accessibility.
3. Production Team: Build a competent production team consisting of a director, producers, stage manager, designers (set, lighting, sound, costume), and technicians. They will oversee all aspects of the production, including casting, rehearsals, set construction, lighting design, sound effects, and costumes.
4. Casting: Hold auditions to find the right actors for each role. Advertise the auditions, prepare audition materials (sides or monologues), and conduct a casting process to select the most suitable actors based on their talent, suitability for the roles, and availability.
5. Rehearsals: Dedicate sufficient time for rehearsals to bring the play to life. Schedule regular rehearsals where the actors and director work on character development, blocking (movement on stage), line memorization, and overall performance coordination.
6. Set Design and Construction: Work with your set designer to create an aesthetically pleasing and functional set. Determine the required props, furniture, and backdrops. Once the design is finalized, coordinate with a construction team to build the set.
7. Lighting and Sound Design: Collaborate with the lighting and sound designers to enhance the mood and atmosphere of the play. They will create the lighting plot, design sound effects, and ensure technical elements are properly executed during performances.
8. Costumes: Collaborate with the costume designer to create or choose appropriate costumes for the characters. Consider the setting, time period, and specific requirements of the play. Coordinate fittings and alterations, and ensure that all costumes are ready before opening night.
9. Technical Rehearsals: Conduct technical rehearsals where you combine all technical elements such as lighting, sound cues, set changes, and special effects with the actors' performances. This process is crucial for synchronization and smooth execution during actual performances.
10. Marketing and Promotion: Develop a marketing and promotion plan to generate awareness and attract an audience. Utilize various channels like social media, traditional advertising, press releases, and collaborations with local organizations or media outlets to reach your target audience.
11. Performances: Finally, once all the preparations are complete, present your play to an audience. Be sure to have a schedule of performance dates and times, and sell tickets or arrange reservations to manage the audience capacity. It's essential to have a plan for ticketing, seating, ushers, and any necessary concessions.
Remember, professionalism is maintained through attention to detail, organization, communication, and an unwavering commitment to quality in every aspect of your production.