July 6, 2020

White Dog set the production meeting for the ungodly hour (at least for momma) of 8am so that everypup could Zoom in for practice without having to stay up extra late. And Steve was able to attend before signing in at the office. It was the first assembly of the entire cast including our friends from Hungary. Sally, Andy and Joey already had enjoyed morning coffee but all the players appreciated White Dog's touch of a carried in breakfast of croissants, Danish cheeses, and Sardines. Before the read through of Hamlet began she introduced the newcomers, although they are well loved already.

Charly assumes the character of Francisco, a soldier and guardsman at Elsinore. It is not a stretch for our true and strong friend to bravely defend Hamlet's home and his country.

Asta, Charly's sister, has some experience acting and as such White Dog has assigned her a double role. First, as Reynaldo, the servant Polonius sends to Paris to check on Laertes. Asta is familiar with Paris and speaks the French language.

Asta will speak the play's final message of hope for the monarchy of Denmark and it subjects as Fontinbras, crown Princess to Norway. White Dog and Asta agree that the lines should be delivered with the deep calm conviction of a female James Earl Jones. WD is confident that Asta will project perfectly.

There was some discussion and practice with how fight scenes should be handled. Zsofia (Laertes) suggested that those moments be staged as wrestling like stags sparring since the lack of thumbs makes sword and knife wielding awkward looking. She demonstrated with Bailey. WH gave every player the homework of starting to memorize lines and to bring costume ideas to Thursday's rehearsal.