Screenwriting : Staged Screenplay Readings by Nevada McPherson

Are you looking for a Table read or a Stage read? They are a little different. I recently did this so here is some of my takeaways. Hope this helps. 1. Gather some folks with at least some acting ability and get them the script in advance. 2. Do a quick casting - primarily focusing on your main characters. Don't fear handing multiple small parts to a single person if you have to. 3. Give them a day or two to figure out their voice and become familiar with the story. 4. Make sure you have a good environment - distraction free 5. Introduce yourself, set the agenda and set up the story - give direction to parts 6. Have water available 7. Do not read your script along with them. It's ok to turn the pages with them and mark certain things but you need to use your ears not your eyes. 8. Make sure to assign an editor, narrator 9. Do a really good debrief. The one I did, we had an audience and a marketing survey with key questions. 10. Have a party afterwards. 11. It's a good idea to video tape it and listen back to it at least twice. 12. Have everyone sign your copy... it will be a nice momento

I find table reads to be very helpful when the project is "ready". I've got one coming up as well for a short that I'm working on producing this summer. The read is one more round before I go after a Director. I agree with Stacy- that's a great checklist. I would also suggest working with someone as a "casting director" who is used to working with actors. If you know an actor who can help you get that ball going, that's great. It helps you to feel that you've got a team behind you there :) I also do a feedback form afterwards with key questions, including some basics: What is the story about? What is the theme? Who is the lead? Where does the story "drag"? etc. Quick answers, and really helpful to check actor and audience reactions (I always invite a couple of extras to help there). Have fun!

Thanks so much for the wonderful tips and advice, Stacy and Annika! Very helpful! I had an informal table read for one of my short scripts prior to shooting the film and I'm looking at doing a staged reading this time. I went to a couple in New Orleans that were excellent; I'm in North Carolina now and trying to connect and reach out to some folks here so I can see my script "up on its feet." Thanks for reminding me to video tape it, Stacy, and not to read along too closely in the script! :-)

As a writer, I'm a firm believer in table reads – it is invaluable to the rewriting process As the director, I feel they are invaluable in helping me get a feel for the story – I close my eyes and try to visualize how I'll block certain scenes. I'm in a small market so I also use them as part of the overall casting process. I just finished the first table read of my short film “Forever?” If I'm cleaver enough about how to do it (doubtful), I'd be glad to send it (.mp4 file) to you if you'd like.