Okay guys, as promised, here’s the example from what I learned!
Instead of using the score to call the show, the script was re-typed out and formated, but with eight counts. The calling SM would tap out with his finger to help stay on beat and make the cues perfect.
The reasons why I like the idea:
While calling a show, i don’t really need the exact note being played. All I need is the beat. Also, writing in cues on sheet music is terrible.
Problems with the idea:
You couldn’t use it for your blocking very well, since you wouldn’t know what measure number you’re on. You can’t tell the maestro where to start if you don’t have a measure number. This script would probably have to be brought in in tech week, possibly after 10/12. Also, this is only really helpful for musicals with a lot of dance numbers and very little speaking moments. It’s perfect for Legally Blonde or American Idiot because it’s fast paced and most of the speaking moments happen within the songs.
Also, it might take a while to actually type the entire script/score out in a word document.
I’m defiantly trying it with Legally Blonde, just to see if it works for me. It was easy to follow along and even call the cues along with the SM for American Idiot, so I’m very willing to give it a shot!
EDIT: If you don’t understand it, (which I didn’t until the show started,) try listening to Omigod You Guys from the Legally Blonde soundtrack. It’s available for free on Spotify.
