How do you adapt your script and staging for an online format?

1 Choose the right platform

The first step is to decide how you will deliver your online show to your audience. There are different options, such as live streaming, pre-recording, or using interactive platforms like Zoom or Discord. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your budget, technical skills, and artistic vision. For example, live streaming can create a sense of immediacy and connection, but it also requires reliable internet connection, good sound and video quality, and contingency plans for technical glitches. Pre-recording can give you more control over editing and effects, but it can also lose some of the spontaneity and interactivity of live theatre. Interactive platforms can allow you to involve your audience in the show, but they can also pose challenges for privacy, security, and moderation.

2 Adapt your script

The next step is to review your script and see if it needs any changes to suit the online format. You may need to cut, rewrite, or add some scenes, depending on the length, genre, and tone of your show. For example, you may want to shorten your show to avoid online fatigue, or add some breaks or transitions to keep the audience engaged. You may also want to adjust the dialogue, narration, or action to address the online medium, such as breaking the fourth wall, acknowledging the camera, or using screen-based elements like chat, video calls, or pop-ups. You may also want to consider the copyright and licensing issues of your script, and obtain the necessary permissions or royalties.

3 Design your staging

The third step is to plan how you will stage your show online, taking into account the visual, audio, and spatial aspects. You need to think about the location, set, props, costumes, lighting, sound, and camera angles of your show, and how they will affect the online presentation. For example, you may want to choose a location that has good natural or artificial lighting, a quiet and stable sound environment, and a suitable background or green screen. You may also want to use simple and minimal set, props, and costumes, to avoid clutter and distraction. You may also want to experiment with different camera angles, zooms, and movements, to create variety and interest.

4 Rehearse and test

The fourth step is to rehearse and test your show online, as much as possible, before the actual performance. You need to practice your lines, cues, movements, and interactions with the online medium, and make sure you are comfortable and confident with them. You also need to test your equipment, software, internet connection, and platform, and check for any technical issues or glitches. You may want to do a dry run or a dress rehearsal with a small or invited audience, and ask for feedback and suggestions. You may also want to have a backup plan or a tech support person in case something goes wrong during the show.

5 Engage your audience

The fifth step is to find ways to engage your audience online, before, during, and after the show. You need to promote your show and attract potential viewers, using social media, email, or other marketing tools. You may also want to offer some incentives or perks, such as discounts, giveaways, or exclusive content. During the show, you may want to interact with your audience, using chat, polls, Q&A, or other features. You may also want to encourage your audience to share their reactions, comments, or reviews, using hashtags, ratings, or testimonials. After the show, you may want to follow up with your audience, using thank you messages, surveys, or newsletters.

6 Evaluate and improve

The final step is to evaluate and improve your online show, based on your own observations and feedback from your audience. You need to reflect on what worked and what didn't, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of your online show. You may also want to collect and analyze some data, such as views, likes, shares, or revenue. You may also want to compare your online show with your original stage show, and see how they differ and complement each other. You may also want to explore new possibilities and opportunities for your online show, such as collaborating with other artists, reaching new audiences, or creating new content.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?