The Hairy Ape: Introduction to the Jose Quintero Rehearsal Notes

Abstract

The notes that follow document Jose Quintero's remarks and directions to the actors prior to any specific adjustment or adaptation of The Hairy Ape for radio. Quintero proceeded as he did for his first radio direction, the O'Neill sea plays, cautioning the actors that their primary consideration would be the play itself, O'Neill's vision of it, its meaning, imagery, and relevance to their own lives, its characters and their importance, and its action. All this must be understood as a basis for performing the work, regardless of the medium. The adjustments, in this case for radio, would come later. This approach was encouraged by sound designer Randy Thom during an initial meeting with Quintero. The director asked if there were specific things he should consider about radio adaptation. Thom proposed that he give all his attention to what he would normally do in directing the play; it would then be Thom's job to decide how the voice track would be designed and recorded.