by Kinjal Bali

Created on: May 26, 2008

To become a theatre director could be like a dream come true to the people who live, breathe and die for the passion of creativity. The misconception that actors are born, not made is no more on the heads. Before learning about how to be a theatre director, lets see what role does the director play in this energetic, vibrant world of theatre.

Job Description - A theatre director is a person who is responsible for the overall functionality of the theatre. The director is the primary visionary who makes decisions on the artistic concepts and interpretations of the text, and its staging. He supervises the actors and directs the action in the production of a show.

Different ways of getting a head start - Usually most directors are employed on a freelance or fixed-term contract basis. You can begin your career as assistant director. As an assistant director, you may undertake activities such as rehearsing certain scenes away from the main rehearsal and giving back the feedback to the actors.

Many companies hire a director full time as an associate. The director then works with the artistic director, assisting with the programming and directing on some production. There can be many activities included as an associate like, programming and budgeting, working with writers, adapting a script, analyzing and exploring the content, translating and interpreting a script or musical score, managing time schedules, organizing people, attending meetings with designers, conducting rehearsals, attending preview performances.

Work conditions - How much you can earn as a theatre director as an associate entirely depends on the length and type of contract undertaken, for eg. freelance, repertory). Low salaries may be supplemented by freelance work, running creative workshops and script consultancy. Working hours involve regular weekend and evening work. The work can be very stressful and frustrating, but can also be extremely rewarding. If working with a touring company, travel and overseas work is common.

Entry requirements - Although the world of theatre is open to all graduates but a degree in these subjects can improve your chances.

* English literature
* Drama / theatre studies
* Languages or creative arts

Hone your skills -

1. Study scripts - The director should be a master in script selection, analysis of the script, and should be well aware of the tone and impact of the play on the audience. You can learn much about the theatre by studying and analyzing the scripts. In each script you should learn the plot and point of each script. Try to learn more and more. Be an addict.

2. Managerial skills - The director should possess good management qualities as he may need to schedule the general rehearsals, run-through, technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, previews etc.

3. Leadership skills - Being a director, you must know how to lead your team altogether. You should never ignore your team. Listen to the actors and your team mates for new ideas.

4. Attitude - Your attitude towards actors as a theatre director should facilitate quality in the play. Motivate your actors and develop sensitivity to scripts.

Keeping all these things in mind may help you to decide whether your career as a theatre director makes you 'not born, but made' director.

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