Blocking: Script Notation and Movement Charts

Blocking Blocking is not to be confused with a character’s individual movements: - waving, - smiling, - head scratching, etc. These movements are called business. Blocking refers to the spatial changes of the characters: standing, sitting, crossing.

Blocking: Script Notation Universal Stage Notation Shorthand Can be easily understood - universal Allows actors and stage managers to quickly record how, when and where they move throughout the course of the play. Using universal stage notation is also helpful to understudies and actors who may fill in for missing regular players.

Blocking: Script Notation Universal Stage Notation Shorthand It is the actor's responsibility to make sure that s/he understands the movement as prescribed by the director. - Therefore you must make your own notes. Always write your notation in pencil! Your notes/directions will change! BRING A PENCIL TO EVERY REHEARSAL!

Blocking: Script Notation Universal Stage Notation Shorthand Thus the following move: Magician enters from upstage right, walks downstage right towards the Crystal Box Illusion, crosses stage left to a chair, and sits…. Could be shown in shorthand like this: M EN USR, X DSR CBI, X SL CH +S

Blocking Chart A visual depiction of a scenes blocking. Typically created by the director or stage manager.

Shiloh Rules