Certainly don't wait until you're sitting in on a rehearsal and hear the F bomb dropped every other line.  Realize that you can't change dialog without permission but I'm sure you know that from prior discussion threads. 

 

What you can not do is fall into the trap of "I like this play except for some of the language."   Language is the play and I personally don't believe that we are in a better position than the playwright to decide what language will or will not be used.  And that belief is also backed up by the various copyright laws and statutes.

 

I guess the more relevant question here is how far into the process or production are you at this point?

 

If it is truly there for dramatic reasons then it needs to be said however, sometime an actor (not the good actors mind you) will almost announce the "bad word" or "bad phrase" and draw attention to it.

My suggestion would be to have the actor try to use it as part of his or her character, perhaps almost saying it under their breath, or with teeth clinched.  Many in the audience will wonder what was said and then brush it off and enjoy the rest of the show.

We stay away from the heavy bad language shows because of our audience. No David Mamet for us.

Good Luck!

Susan

 

The board of directors of a ct not knowing anything about the play they're producing??!!   I would think that if language and content were an important factor to their audience base that they would go out of their way to select shows that are appropriate.  Or at the very very least ask the question about it.

 

Let us know how this plays out.   I think there's an object lesson in the making for all of us.

 

 

This is brilliant! I don't know why no one ever suggested it before. You don't cut the word, you just say it with a different form of expression! I think this suggestion will help many of us that want to follow the rules - but don't like the needless bad lanquage in an otherwise great show!

 

Thanks Susan!