by P Vandegrift

Created on: December 09, 2006   Last Updated: September 28, 2010

Directing your script as a first time writer is not an impossible task. Speaking from personal experience, directing your own script is a very rewarding experience.

As a first time writer, your theatrical script is the foundation for your creative canvas. As the writer, you know the intricacies of your story, your characters, where the character 'arcs' are and what your overall intent is with the script - or what impression you want the audience to be left with better than anyone. As writers we have more than likely been disappointed when our work is produced and directed by someone who completely missed the point of your script. How often have we sat there and wished that we had been able to do it ourselves?

In order to direct your script, whether you are a first time script or playwright, it is suggested that you put your script through several readings, if not dozens. It is also recommended, that as a first time writer/director, your script be a short play - ten pages, or a one act, which can be up to 20-30 pages. You may also want to have had some previous experience with directing, whether assistant directing a project or have taken some directing classes. If you do not have any previous directing experience, it is not advised to take on the mantle of director as a first time writer unless you are being mentored throughout the project.

These readings will play a vital role in ascertaining how your story is coming across to an audience, even if you only have a handful of people there to listen. Every reading, make sure to take feed-back notes. At the next reading, invite a few new people and a few of those original people to see if their initial criticisms remain and also to see what a few new sets of ears and eyes has to say about your material.

*At some point, the play will have to come out of 'reading' status and venture into the realm of being staged.

This is where taking part in a 'workshop' prior to full production of the piece would make sense. Contact your local theatre and ask what they charge for rehearsal time. If you are starting with a short play, an hour and a half would be sufficient to do a general read-thru and then get it on its feet and work it. Sit with your actors and discuss what you are aiming for with the script. Discuss what type of 'director' they most valued working with and why. This will give you an idea of how to approach directing your piece. By the end of the hour and a half,

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