Hi folks. I recently had a table reading of the script for my stage musical. The plot is an updated version of the Faust legend. When I asked for feedback, one of the actors raised the obvious point about knowing the story (and therefore the ending) taking away any sort of suspense or interest one might have regarding how the story is told. Whilst acknowledging that point, my view was that this is a classic story that evidently bears retelling. Knowing the ending in such cases is not as important as how one gets there and the emotional journey the protagonist (and the audience) goes through. Have any writers here faced that challenge, successfully or otherwise, and, if so, what have they learned? Chris
On Writing : Tried and tested - or just predictable? by Chris Davies
Tried and tested - or just predictable?
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When you write a new version of a classic story, it's not the ending that matters, it's how you tell the story. Or to put in another way, it's the journey that matters, not the destination. (I'll probably be stoned for suggesting this, but actors are not always the best source for script critiques.)
Funny you should say that ;-) I got the most criticism from the two worst readers!
Chris: I just reviewed "Miss Julie" by Strindberg. This new NYC production set the play in 1888 in New Orleans during Mardi Gras. John the butler and Christine the cook are black -- Miss Julie is still white -- but the ending is the same. That hasn't stopped theatre directors from reviving the 19th century play. Good luck to you.
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Thanks LindaAnn. Of course when you think about it most theatre performances are not of original material so it would seem that most theatre audiences 'know the ending' of most shows they see.
Don't let anything stop you, Chris, including a few stray actors who think they know the ending. (smile)
Chris, while I agree with your point regarding the journey, I also see the actor's point as well. If you can, redirect us a bit. Give us different viewpoints to ponder. If you remember Wicked (the musical) let us assume we knew the ending--whether from the classic movie of Oz or the book Wicked itself and then threw a twist at us. If you can tell the. Story AND lead us astray: all the better.
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That is very true Michael. I have not seen Wicked but I understand that it is the witches' backstory that gives the twist. I have tried to supply my 'Faust' with a backstory too. It's a far more human tale with no supernatural elements. I just came back from a meeting with a proprietor/producer who loved what I did with it so I now have a venue for rehearsals and performance so that's encouraging.
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Kee-p going. One opinion is one opinion, no more.
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All opinions are worth listening to because at least they can make you think a bit more, but not all advice is worth following.