New Shakespeare Company: Prompt Books

Prompt books are produced during the rehearsal process.   All textual cuts or additions are documented plus the blocking for the actors and the technical cues.  The finished prompt book is used by the Deputy Stage Manager to ensure each performance runs smoothly.  In addition to the text, prompt books can include other information useful to researchers such as prop lists, music, sound cues, and reports for each performance.   

(Click on any image for a large size)

A Midsummer Night's Dream 1989 Prompt text for Act IV scene 2.

A Midsummer Night's Dream 1989 Prompt text for Act IV scene 1

Show Report : Much Ado About Nothing 1990 A report is made for each performance listing the timings and any notable events.  This example shows one of rare instances when bad weather cancelled the performance.

Show Report : Much Ado About Nothing 1990 This show report reveals how the natural stage surroundings can sometimes have an impact on a performance.   The Stage Manager writes: 'Owl hooted all through the funeral scene - most effective!!'

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