by Anna Hasty

Created on: August 18, 2008   Last Updated: July 28, 2009

Speaking from personal experience both as an actor and director, a musical production is a challenge worth facing. The many elements that compile a musical are complex right from the start. Musicals require more cast and production members. When choosing a production, a director needs to make sure there are enough performers that have the correct skills. Most musicals require the actor to sing,dance and act all at once. A production should be chosen on how many actors are available and their skills.

Additional backstage crew is necessary also for a smooth production. I recommend someone to help with stage make-up, dance instruction, vocal coaching, band and extra stagecraft workers. It has been my experience that cast-members with smaller parts are often willing to help in other areas as well. The sets for a musical tend to need more details and additional changes then, say, a drama or comedy. Just like any production set building can go on during normal rehearsal hours. Although in some cases the set will require work while the cast is not on stage for safety reasons.It is helpful to set aside additional time to work with the main dancers and vocalists.

Proper stage blocking can also side-step potential issues. Musicals in general have large numbers of cast on stage at the same time. Blocking the scene prior to the actors taking the stage can help provide a mental picture of how you want the scene to look. Dancing can be the most intimidating requirement to an actor who has never performed in a musical before. In some cases walking to the beat of the music will remove the need for an actor to actually dance. Another important factor is providing proper sheet music and scripts to the entire cast. I have found that, when the entire cast, even the chorus, has detailed knowledge of the show, the production flows better.

The final and most important fact to remember is that the cast wants a perfect perform ace as much as the director. As a director you must be willing to get on the stage and help the actors see what you see. Most people understand your vision after you perform it for them. Once all the hours of work are put into the production, everyone wants their moment to shine. Remember the audience for the most part has no idea what the actors have practiced. Small errors can slide right under the radar and the audience is none the wiser.
Just remember a musical production is time consuming and a challenge but, one of the most rewarding productions you will ever direct.

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