• DRAMATURGY IN SINGAPORE •
The following functions of the dramaturg stated below are by no means a definitive directory of tasks, nor is it imperative for all the tasks stated below to be taken on, but rather, should be selected according to the needs of the company.
i. PRODUCTION DRAMATURGY
- Preparing the text for performance
▪ Revising/ editing scripts
▪ Adapting text for performance
▪ Translation of scripts from other languages
▪ Locating drafts (work-in-progress) and versions of scripts
▪ Obtaining the necessary permission for the use of copyright texts
▪ Advisor for playwrights writing or workshopping a new script
▪ Liaison between playwright and director
- Compile research for the production
▪ World of the play
▪ World of the playwright
▪ Our world and the world of the play
▪ Production History
▪ Drama Criticism
▪ Images, Sounds and Media
- Understand the play itself
- Help the director do the casting for actors and source for the relevant crew
- Propose a suitable theatre space for performance and rehearsal
- Obtain an Arts Entertainment License for the performance
• During Rehearsal and Performance
- Guiding the artistic direction of the performance
- Help the production remain in line with the vision for the production
- Help the designer (costume, stage, lighting and sound) do the research
- Making the necessary revision to the text for performance; that is, repeating the processes of preparing the text for performance.
- Audience Dramaturgy; i.e. producing the production programme that will be given to audience, and facilitating audience education events and other “community outreach”
- Marketing and Publicity: advising the marketing team and providing input on press releases for the publicist
- Producing the company’s production casebook, which is compilation of newspaper, magazine, online articles (i.e. stories and reviews) about the production and the dramaturg’s criticisms and reflections on the production, as well as a consideration on the production’s impact on the company’s artistic direction
ii. COMPANY/ RESIDENT DRAMATURGY
- Dealing with NEW scripts; i.e. reading and reporting
- Locating, selecting and recommending scripts to the Artistic Director for production
- Overseeing playwrighting workshops and events
- Supporting the resident playwright’s crafting process
• Working with Company
- Contribute to the shaping of the company’s repertoire and artistic direction, vision and goals
- Working with the education wing of the company (if necessary)