High school students thrive on habits. Creating consistent, manageable habits can be your best friend in a rehearsal process. Your cast should know exactly what's going to happen the instant they walk into the theatre, and it should be the same thing that happened the last time they walked in the theatre. A set routine allows you to focus on the play and not on everything but. Habits can also allow you to turn the rehearsal over to the stage manager when you're inevitably called away

This is not about creating a strict environment. This is not, 'At 4:00 if you're not doing such and such you're in trouble.' The habitual rehearsal is a peaceful rehearsal, a creative rehearsal, a fun place to be.

These are not just habits for your students. They are for you as well. If you don't make an example and make them important for yourself, why should your students? 

It can take time to create habit in the rehearsal hall, especially if there's never been any. But it's worth every ounce of effort. Which of the following habits can you incorporate into your rehearsals?

• Always start rehearsals on time.
• Separate the Outside World and Rehearsal World.
• Everyone treats their script with respect.
• Everyone brings a pencil to rehearsal. (have a box of your own)
• Everyone writes down their own blocking. (Never in pen, always in pencil!)
• No character question, idea, or suggestion is shot down or treated as stupid.
• Take breaks, be clear on return time.
• After a break start rehearsal at the stated return time.
• Stand by your word on expectations.
• Define a time to have fun and a time to work and don't blur the line.
• Define rules and roles.
• Be Prepared.
• Show and share enthusiasm.
• Show and share a passion for theatre.

Part EIGHT of this series on Directing the High School Play will focus on rehearsal trouble shooting.