Finding the Characters and Beginning Act One
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photo by Jamie Cobb
Yesterday, we met once again to discuss Wanderlust. And we had a very productive meeting that resulted in a very good idea of who these characters (Sam & Will) are and why they need to go on this trip.
Thematically, each character is grappling with their ability and/or willingness to interact with the world around them. Sam has a longing to connect with people on the level that her friends do so effortlessly. Using social networks like Facebook or MySpace is the closest she’s been able to come and she really thrives online. But offline, in the real world, there is a barrier she just cannot push beyond. Will on the other hand is at a crossroads in his life. Socializing and friendships have not been a struggle for him, but recently he finds himself growing increasingly distanced from these people and actively seeks to withdraw from everything and leave town.
The reasons for the emotional place these characters find themselves in, definitely point back to their youth in some small way, but the current state of their life, while becoming clearer, is still to be defined. We know they were childhood friends and that young Sam was an only child. And we know they reconnect in the manner so many of us have rediscovered old friends, through a social network. And finally, we know they share a longing to drive back to their hometown, Sacramento, although for reasons unique to each character.
Today, Kevin and I started outlining Act One of the story, making notations of ideas for the rest of the story and the ending in particular. Next week, we will be meeting with Marion Kerr and John T. Woods individually and possibly paired with another actor to explore their present lives in a rehearsal/improv scenario.
