On Wednesday night, we were absolutely honoured to have Isi Nimmo give us a fascinating, informative insight into the world of theatre and television. When the curtains opened, we were treated to an enigmatic performance including scripts, sound effects, props, lighting and, of course, lots of amazing directing!
Isi explained that the foundation of any production needs to be a ‘Wow’ story with compelling, fascinating characters to create that certain magic.
Isi graduated from RADA in 1977, training as a stage manager and sound operator, but her passion is directing. With almost 50 years’ experience, from community theatre to London’s West End, she certainly has an unlimited fountain of knowledge!
She explained the importance of formatting scripts correctly, including copyright information and page numbers. Can you imagine everyone’s faces if an actor dropped
a script with no page numbers? Ouch!
Characters need their own foibles and mannerisms, while subtext helps create their backstories and allows us to really get behind their eyes. Every character, however minor, should drive the story forward. Less is more, as too many characters can overwhelm an audience. And don’t forget, the more characters, the higher the production costs!
Isi also demonstrated how simple, movable props, soundscapes and lighting can create multiple locations and bring characters to life. A great example would be using reverb in a ghost scene!
Other really useful tips included the ‘Rule of Three’ to create impact, such as Shakespeare’s “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears”, and tricolons to create humour. Remember The Vicar of Dibley, when they expected a bloke with a Bible and bad breath but got a babe with a bob and bosoms!
As the curtain call drew closer, we finished the evening watching some of the most iconic comedy sketches ever written. Who could forget the Two Ronnies’ Four Candles or Victoria Wood’s The Waitress? When the curtain dropped, we were in stitches!
Isi has collaborated with local artist Ken O’Hara and our very own Ayr Writers’ Club member Tracey Harvey.
Encore?
Isi is currently directing Mark Twain and A Christmas Carol, with tickets available through Eventbrite.
By Elaine Ewart