How we work.

We shall present our stories truthfully through careful dramaturgy, immersing ourselves and our audience in the world of the play beyond the script to create an educational, cultural and spiritual exchange among the work, the ensemble, and the community. – 3Graces' Mission Statement

1. dramaturgy, n, 1. the craft or the techniques of dramatic composition considered collectively 2. the dramatic art

Each 3Graces production is assigned one or more dramaturgs. The 3Graces dramaturg acts as the anthropologist for the play, mining the time and place of the play, to bring the actors, creative team, and ultimately the audience, a more visceral experience of the piece. The Dramaturg's notes in each Mainstage program are one of the highlights of seeing a 3Graces production.  Dramaturgs also lead three Immersion Rehearsals. 

2. immersion, n, 1. the act of immersing 2. the state of being immersed. 3. baptism in which the whole body of the person is submerged in water. 4. the state of being deeply engaged; absorption 5. the entrance of a heavenly body into an eclipse by another body, an occultation or transit.

3Graces holds special Immersion rehearsals with the cast and creative team of each production.  Immersions can consist of a wide variety of activities -- watching movies or documentaries, attending a concert or lecture, cooking a meal ... anything the dramaturgs think will help bring the world of the play beyond the script to life. Dramaturgs also select reading material for the company that gives more insight into the play. This material is handed out in installments so that the company is encouraged to read it simultaneously, sparking discussion and a shared experience outside of the standard rehearsal, therefore strengthening the Ensemble.

3. ensemble, n, 1. all the parts of a thing taken together, so that each part is considered only in relation to the whole. 2. a person’s entire costume. 3. the general effect, as of a work of art. 4.a. the united performance of an entire group. b. the group so performing 5. a group of supporting performers is a theatrical production

3Graces believes in the power of the Ensemble and the great results that Collaboration can generate, therefore our members are carefully chosen and expected to take on an active role in every pre-production and production. In addition, Ensemble Building activities are designed and planned throughout the year by company members to strengthen the ensemble and build individual craft. These may include attending an exhibit, participation in a mime class or dance class, etc.