Why do a Script Analysis/Breakdown when the director and designers do their own?
First, view it as a SM (or SM team) eyes only document. You dont want to come across as telling the team HOW to do their work.
Not only are you looking for an understanding of the characters, plot, storyline and themes- you will be investigating set, props, costumes, lights, sound, tech/special effects called for by the script.
When I was starting out in Stage Management, I did a lot of searches for tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions. In my searches, I was
I use it to:
1. Understand the needs of the script.
2. Compile a list of questions to get answered. I divulge heavily from the script at first. For an example if a scene is set at a wedding, I can infer wedding looks for the cast.
3. Anticipate needs of the team.
4. Learn how we are telling the show vs what's in the script.
5. Ask how we may do specific moments or effects.
Be tactful with getting your answers. Your director may not have answers for everything. And you definitely dont want to ask 1000 questions at a single go. They will come from discussions with the team, meetings, their plots and research paperwork, groundplans, drawings, etc.
It is important to learn the designs to execute them efficiently for the show.
