Artist Connection Theatre Inc

Help Bring “Time to Kill” to Life!

Hello friends and theatre lovers,

My name is Bill Hamilton, and I have written a full-length play titled “Time to Kill,” adapted from Ernest Hemingway’s short story, “The Killers.” The play runs for approximately 90 minutes. To ensure the script is polished and ready for production, the next crucial step is to conduct a read-through, which comes with associated costs.

Summary of “Time to Kill”:

Set in a small-town diner, “Time to Kill” explores themes of fate, morality, and the human condition as two hitmen, Al and Max, arrive to carry out a contract, only to find themselves questioning their own choices, the lives they lead, and their effect on the lives of those they encounter. Hemingway’s short story is in the public domain, allowing me to adapt it without infringing on any copyright.

Bringing this play to life on stage has been a long-time dream of mine. Having a read-through is critical to getting it published. At 71 years old, my time (to kill) is dwindling if I am to achieve this dream. With your support, we can make it happen.

About Me:

I am a retired individual with a passion for theatre. Over the years, I have played various roles in local community theatre, including Maurice in “Beauty and the Beast,” Murray the Cop in “The Odd Couple,” and Dr. Herman Einstein in “Arsenic and Old Lace.” These experiences have fueled my desire to create and share my work. My photo is of me as the character Peter Vetter from the play “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” performed at Artist Connection Theatre in Jacksonville, FL.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Professional playwright’s review: $500

Refreshments and drinks for the cast: $200

Script copies for 19 actors: $200

Theatre rental for 3-4 hours: $450

Tech/Video person: $150

Insurance: $100

Cleaning: $150

Miscellaneous: $100+

Why a Read-Through is Crucial for the Success of Our Play:

A read-through is an essential step in the development of any play. It allows the cast and creative team to hear the script out loud for the first time, bringing the characters and dialogue to life. This process is invaluable for several reasons:

Script Refinement: Hearing the script read aloud helps identify areas that may need revision or improvement. It provides the playwright with immediate feedback on the flow, pacing, and clarity of the dialogue.

Character Development: Actors can begin to explore their characters and understand their motivations, relationships, and arcs. This early exploration is crucial for building authentic and compelling performances.

Creative Collaboration: A read-through fosters collaboration among the cast, director, and playwright. It opens up a space for discussion, suggestions, and creative input, ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards a unified vision.

Identifying Technical Needs: It helps the production team identify any technical requirements or challenges early on, such as set design, props, and special effects, allowing for better planning and execution.

Building Momentum: A successful read-through generates excitement and momentum for the project. It helps secure further support and funding by demonstrating the potential and quality of the play.

As a retired individual on a fixed income, I am asking for help. Your contributions will ensure that we can bring this exciting project to life. Your donation will make a huge difference and be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your support and for keeping the arts alive in our community!

Bill Hamilton