Chicago Actors Perform at Live Table Read

The SAG-AFTRA Chicago Local and the Independent Film Alliance Chicago hosted an At the Table event on Aug. 22.

At the Table, an ongoing partnership between the local and IFA, brings together performers and up-and-coming screenwriters for live table reads. Additionally, there is a moderated feedback session where actors and screenwriters engage with the audience for real-time feedback and reactions. Often in attendance are film investors and other industry professionals.

SAG-AFTRA Chicago Local members Cynthia Judge, Sheryl Neiman, Iris Lieberman, Justine C. Turner, Chloe Skoczen, Aeris Danet, Tommy Martin, Chris Holder, Eve Rounds, Michael Downey, William C. Thompson and Susan Hofflander read Belladonna, a “coming-of-old-age” script a mother and housewife. The script was written by IFA Chicago member Beah Travis.

Travis said about the live reading following the event, “It’s one thing to hear the lines in your own head, and then a totally different thing to hear them read out loud and interpreted by actors. The cast was so talented and extremely thoughtful in how they approached the characters and the story. The experience provided me with more insight into the characters and their relationships with each other. I’m so grateful.”

She added, “Listening to the performance allowed me to identify lines that weren’t quite landing how I imagined and areas that needed a little more finessing. Overall, the experience gave me confidence in the story that I have, along with the opportunity to hone parts of the script.”

For more information or to participate in At the Table readings, please contact chicago@sagaftra.org.

IFA Chicago is a nonprofit organization supporting independent content creators through programming, volunteering and sponsorship opportunities.

Photo: The cast of “Belladonna” gathers for a group photo before the table read in the KRC.