Why Your Script Needs a Table Read

Photo via LucasFilm

Your script is done. You’ve typed Fade Out. You’ve read the script through several times. You’ve given it a polish. And yet, something still isn’t working – which means it’s probably time to give your script a Table Read.

What is a Table Read?

A Table Read is when a group of actors come together to read through a script.

What Use is a Table Read?

Table Reads let writers hear their words out loud and interpreted by actors. There’s a world of difference between saying dialogue to yourself and having an actor perform it. Odd phrasings, typos, and grammar mistakes instantly become apparent. Pacing is made real and you can feel when the scene is dragging or popping off the page.

But beyond just the experience of hearing the script performed, you also get the valuable input and insight of your actors. You’ve been busy trying to juggle the entirety of the script, but the people reading your script are going to be keyed in on just their characters and scenes, providing a whole new view point on what is or isn’t working in your script. This is especially useful if you can bring in experienced actors.

How Do I Set up a Table Read?

All you need for a table read is a script and some readers to perform. You can do it in person or virtually. If you really want a productive read, give the readers at least a few days to review the script and prep their performances (and questions) instead of going in cold.

If you do get to have your table read in person, it’s good form to provide lunch or dinner to your readers, along with snacks and refreshments – it’s the least you can do after they give you their time and energy to help make your script better.

Pick your readers, find a time when everyone is free, and get ready to take notes!

What If I Don’t Know Any Actors?

Just because you don’t know actors, doesn’t mean you can’t line some up for a reading. There are plenty of places to post that you’re looking for actors, like Craigslist, where you can list the type of performers you’re looking for and when you’re aiming to have the reading. Depending on where you live, local groups might host their own regular table reads for new scripts.

Even if you can’t line up professional actors, it’s still useful to have your script read out loud – so ask your friends or fellow writers to come together and perform. If you have a writers group, you can see about having regular table reads of each other’s scripts.

And of course, the Screenwriters Network has regular table reads on our Discord Server. They’re totally free! Just keep an eye on announcements for when the next read will be held and come on out to get to hear your script out loud.

Fred Pelzer
Managing Editor
On Spec