Cuts

I had to shorten a play. The actors I was directing quite naturally wanted to know what criteria I was using for making cuts to their lines!!! "Just cutting out the flab!" was the easy answer.

Flabby writing, of course, should be avoided. When, as writer or director, I have to cut a script I ask this question: Does each line meet at least one of the following tests?

1. Contains information that advances and is essential to main story line.
• Tell me a story.
2. Intensifies situation.
• Make it special. Make it interesting. Make it extreme.
3. Reveals character.
• Show me the human condition.
4. Completes the trajectory of an emotional curve or allows the time necessary for an emotional transition.
• Show me their emotions so I believe in them.
5. Promotes the major philosophical or ethical argument of the play.
• Make me think.
6. Establishes setting or atmosphere.
• Transport me to other worlds.
7. Has special poetic, rhythmic or dynamic function.
• Satisfy my senses.
8. Has distinct and appropriate gag or entertainment value.
• Amuse me.
9. Is necessary to cover technical problems such as long exits, costume changes, scene shifts etc.
• Keep it moving.