Student Directing
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Topic: Student Directing
Posted By: Guests
Subject: Student Directing
Date Posted: 1/10/03 at 10:24pm
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I have recently started student directing my high school's production of "The Wiz." This is the first time I've done something like this and I'm a little nervous. I'm the only student director working with directors who are accustomed to working with at least two and the largest cast the school has had so far. If anyone has any advice for me I would really appreciate it. Thanks!
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Replies:
Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: 1/11/03 at 1:55pm
Congratulations Steph!
Advice -- Read the script several times. Know it inside out and upside down. Know it better than your actors will know it.
Have your plan firmly in mind before you even audition.
Have your blocking prepared before you begin.
Allow enough time for your music rehearsals so the cast can learn the numbers.
Latch on to a good mentor.
Rely on your producer for all the non-artistic parts of the show.
Don’t let your producer try to direct.
Make a prompt book. Write in it in pencil because changes will be inevitable.
Work with your Stage Manager always at your side.
Don’t be afraid to delegate.
Don’t accept lateness or lack of attention to your rehearsal schedule without a good reason.
Just because it is a musical, don’t feel like the music will carry the show. Some musicals I’ve seen have great momentum in the musical numbers but die when the dialog begins. Do character development with your actors after the first few read through rehearsals. This is very important.
Collaborate with your choreographer and music director. The three of you should have a unified vision and carry that vision through. The final decisions are yours to make as the Stage Director, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t accept advice and suggestions from your team.
Present a unified front with the choreographer and music director.
Don’t let your actors see you sweat and be prepared for anything to happen because it will.
Get your rest and protect your health. Watch out, because stress can take its toll.
Don’t shout or become angry. Work with your actors to establish a “Comfort Zone”
If you want respect you have to give respect.
As a student, Directing is important, but don’t let your grades slip because of your work on the show. Remember -- Grades come first, Directing comes second.
Your actors are students like you. They are not professionals. Drive them, motivate them, strive for perfection, but don’t over estimate their abilities. One of my favorite mentors told me in Community and Scholastic theatre, if you achieve 60% of your vision you are doing great.
The most important thing is to have fun. Life is too short-enjoy the experience.
Fiat Lux!
Bil K
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"The Director is simply the audience.......
His job is to preside over accidents."
Orson Welles
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Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: 1/12/03 at 1:11pm
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Sometimes when we are faced with new challenges we simple have to "jump in and swim like crazy"! You can do it!
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Posted By: Guests
Date Posted: 1/13/03 at 12:47pm
One of the mistakes I have seen new directors make is to not know when to "put your foot down." A show is a collaborative process between the director, designers, actors, etc, and this is a really fun an exciting process. But when things start coming down to the wire the director has to know when to make final decisions on things.
Dan
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