A Christmas Carol: Inside The Rehearsal Room

Drama Student Dispatches: inside the rehearsal room of a Christmas carol

Words by Rosie Barlow, placement student at Tobacco Factory Theatres
Photos by Camilla Adams

Last week, I was invited into the rehearsals for Tobacco Factory Theatre’s in-house production of A Christmas Carol.

As an applied theatre student studying at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, stepping behind the scenes of a working theatre during the busiest time of the year has felt invaluable in broadening my knowledge and understanding of the work involved in bringing an original festive production to the stage.

Getting warmed up at the start of rehearsals with movement director Laïla Diallo.

Upon arrival to the rehearsal space, a supportive and positive atmosphere was prominent and it felt promising to be welcomed in with so much warmth from all the cast and crew.

Physical theatre legend Dik Downey is our Scrooge!

It was clear that there were immense levels of focus and dedication across the room, and I particularly enjoyed observing how the different energies within the team complimented one another, creating an electric and playful dynamic.

Marley and the ghosts inside the rehearsal room

It was insightful to witness a rehearsal room that didn’t feel hierarchical or intimidating and it was beneficial watching the actors experiment with different parts of the script, exploring them through lively and innovative approaches.

Co-director Heidi Vaughan and Lara J West who plays Spoiler the Ghost having a giggle in rehearsals!

Co-director Heidi Vaughan used clear and productive methods to guide the actors which added to the supportive and collaborative environment in the space. There was a definite focus on timing and comedic delivery which felt highly effective in balancing amusing moments with the natural flow of dialogue. This ensured that key moments remained engaging and well-paced.

Co-director Lydia Cook and movement director Laïla Diallo

I also enjoyed watching how the creative team engaged with the space. Movement director Laïla Diallo was essential in keeping the energy on stage vibrant and punchy whilst musician Alex Lupo and musical director Dom Coyote constantly exchanged imaginative perspectives on how to use sound to accentuate the action on stage.