Donya V #TEAMV

It was such a fun experience to play Donya Victorina from Jose Rizal’s Noli Mi Tangere for our Musical Play. It was a struggle at first, with the change of characters and the script, but it all turned out great in the end and I’m very happy to have played such an interesting role for mah mates. :-) hehe

 I'm not going to dwell much on how things went- the preparation, the practices (blah, blah, blah) but I am going to give you guys tips on how to rock your first ever Musical Play. (On directing, writing and producing) BECAUSE I HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO WRITE ABOUT.

5 TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR MUSICAL PLAY THE BEST THAT IT CAN BE (sdlfjahsdlfdgakjsf)

*MP- Musical Play
  TDR- Technical Dress Rehearsal

 1.   Make a solid and final script, and stick to it.

You can’t start rehearsing, when you don’t have anything to rehearse for (well duh).  :--) Make the script simple and straight to the point. Try to keep it as short as possible (since your class will only be given a few minutes for your MP).

2.    Follow, but suggest. Learn how to “follow the leader”, but also learn how to give out your suggestions. 

You’ll never know if your idea could work better than what you guys are working on now, if you don’t make it an option. Don’t be afraid to tell them things, but be sensitive. Try to tell them nicely as to avoid misunderstandings.

3.  Costumes and props go a long way.

As much as you need to focus on your characters’s acting and singing, your Production Team should also be moving. Do research. Get inspiration online. Think like your character. What do you think they should be wearing? My costume was inspired by the outfits from the late 1800’s in Europe. We figured Donya Victorina was inspired by European fashion, so we tried to make it as “Donya V” as possible. My mom designed it and we had it done by a seamstress. Also, stretch your resources far out. Borrow pieces from your friends or dig deep into the closets of family members (with permission!) if you don’t want to buy costumes or have them done. Make them as realistic as possible, too. As for props, make them big and sturdy. Only practice with the props within the week of the MP, or on the TDR (as to avoid getting them destroyed).

4.  Use your practicing time wisely!

Make sure to always maximize your time in practicing for your MP. Cooperate. Participate. Remember, this activity is graded, always give your best into it. Practice at home and try to research more on your character. Help one another. (This is getting so random, I’m sorry :-() If you think one of your co-actors is having a hard time internalizing his/her character, help him/her out and try to boost his/her confidence. A compliment can go a long way. :-) (Also, when practicing, use “pseudo-microphones” so the TDR and the actual MP will be easier and less of a hassle.)

5. Lastly, think positive.

I know this is kind of cliché, but if you think that you’re going to perform badly, then you are most probably going to make that happen-  you are going to perform badly. Always try to think of the bright side. Don’t be too stressed about the MP. One day, it’s going to be over and you’re going to miss everything (from the preparation, to the TDR, to the MP itself). Just have fun and do your best and your MP will turn out just fine.


*The pictures! (in random order) I'm the one with the hat (w/feathers)/wearing an orange outfit

The Finale!

My scene :-)

Power hug: all men down!

<3

Me with Padre Salvi during the TDR (Incomplete costume)

My incomplete costume (taken during the TDR)

Goofing around! 

The Finale :-)

 

Photo credits: My classmates and their parents :-)

-Andrea xx