Directing Theater 101 - 10 Steps to Successful Productions

Drawing on years of experience, Wilma Marcus Chandler starts by teaching you how to read, analyze and understand a script

She shows you how to visualize a show and explains how to get started and how to research and think about concept, music, lights, sound, and costumes

Then tips are provided on how to hold auditions as well as information on how to talk to the cast and crew

And how to listen!

New directors will learn how to stage a play, using blocking, body movement, stage business, exits and entrances

She also shares skills for preparing a production, including rehearsal techniques, time-lines, budgets, royalties, and publicity

Also included is a valuable discussion on how to prepare for a career in directing

Written especially for the inexperienced or young director, particular emphasis is given to ...

- developing confidence in aesthetic judgments and choices

- developing a concept for production based on understanding the text

- practical, step-by-step methods for completing a production with integrity and polish

- discussion of other styles of theater and different ways of producing a play

- information for continuing to learn & train

- suggestions for further reading and thinking

Makes a great gift for an aspiring director!

REVIEWS

"The chapters on play analysis, fundamentals of directing, production preparation, auditions, rehearsals, problem solving, production people, performance, and continuing training provide a sound overview of the profession for the novice

Of special note is the inclusion of the complete text of Lady Gregory's one-act play The Rising of the Moon

Chandler introduces it in the chapter on play analysis and effectively uses this play as the context for discussing further directorial decisions, such as set, lighting, sound effects, and costuming, throughout the following chapters" ~ Library Journal Xpress Reviews

NOTE: If you'd rather produce than direct, check out So You Want to be a Theatre Producer?