Ever since college I have only wanted to direct. I took a self imposed exile from the theatre world for awhile, and have returned this year to assistant direct and stage manage 3 plays in a row (Romeo and Juliet, Jeffrey, and Jesus Christ Superstar). My intention on AD/SMing those shows was to prove my worth as a potential director but all three companies never had a person present that would even SEE how qualified I might be. Every crew/production member or actor working on each production was "hired" or cast from outside, and not one person represented the theatres themselves or shown themselves to be a valuable contact.

This is VERY frustrating for me to look forward to stage managing ANOTHER play at ANOTHER theatre where no one is responsible for selecting the director. I never really wanted to stage manage, I'm just good at it.

I have a degree in theatre, am 35 year old, and have NO IDEA how to get my foot in the door !!!!! HELP!

Ken

Be patient. I was in a very similar situation. I had a degree in theatre, summer stock and semi-pro experience but took several years(okay, a decade) off after a traumatic personal experience. In the last two years the new love of my life has helped me get back to doing what I love. In my case I was able to use my experience in management (built over a decade) to put myself on the inside. Once it was known I was interested in being a part of community theatre again I received offers of Board membership in two different companies. I will point out that having a good (if somewhat old) reputation helped me, and the companies need for someone interested in the management end and not just to be in the plays was definitely a factor. (Both are trying to grow, and one is changing locations after 28 years!) But, now I am one of the people who decide who directs. I will direct a Halloween readers theatre program for one company and direct a production of my original script for the other this spring. It took me almost two years to get back in and now I have too much to do! The thing I have learned though is if you love doing it, it is worth the wait.