Write a play about sailors or choose to work on an existing play that touches on that theme, such as the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical "South Pacific," Eugene O'Neill's "Sea Plays," or one of several versions of "Sinbad the Sailor." You may also hire a playwright and work alongside her to ensure the play fits your vision.
Hire staff members to fill behind-the-scenes production roles, including a director, stage manager, set designer, costume designer, choreographer, light and sound board operators, makeup artist, property master, and stage runners. Hire these staff members according to your overall budget and find volunteers for the positions if your funds are limited. Some positions, such as costume and set designer, may be crucial in a play about sailors. All involved will have to do their research into the particulars related to these sailors to make the work look authentic.
Hold auditions for actors to play each of the characters. You and the director should oversee auditions and discuss what actors will best fit each part. Actors should look and act the part of their characters. For example, those hired as sailors should appear to be fit, as men and women in this field are required to uphold a certain level of athleticism.
Work closely with the set and costume designer to make sure each component reflects the proper atmosphere for the play. Some ideas for sets for a sailor play include the deck of a ship, a large ballroom for a navy ball, or a tropical island where the sailors may be stationed. Costumes would most likely include the sailor uniform as well as more casual wear.
Hold play rehearsals as frequently as possible and as far in advance of the production date as possible. The director and the stage manager should oversee the rehearsals. For large dance numbers, the cast might work separately with a choreographer. As the rehearsals progress, other members of the behind-the-scenes staff should attend to organize lighting, sound, props, costumes, and the like. Run the dress rehearsal as if it was an actual show, with complete sets and in costume.
Publicize the show with posters, brochures and online advertising. You might use photographs of sailors as the main image in these advertisements. Advertise for the show in locations that you think are frequented by people who will be interested in attending, including the theater itself and its website. You might give complimentary tickets to sailors stationed nearby to have them see the show and get their reaction to the piece.