Directing Mentorship
The fall one-act play allow an opportunity for student to direct a play entirely on their own. This is perhaps the most challenging task in our program, requiring a strong creative vision, a command of the maternal, self-discipline, relentless energy, and exceptional character.
At the heart of almost any theatrical performance is the guiding hand of a director, a unique professional who takes change of the production process and shapes almost every aspect of the show. Directors audition and cast actors; assemble and oversee the production team; provide design directives; leading rehearsals; and manage the production schedule for the project, ensuring that all the moving part connect. Perhaps most importantly, they also supply a unifying understanding of the text and a particular vision for the production, which might mean a unique setting, a visual style or mood, or an intercepting design concept that plays off theme in the texts.
The list below is short for a reason. It takes a special kind of individual to make this kind of commitment. Consider how difficult it must be, directing one's peers. It's one thing to perform in a group with a common rank and responsibility; its quite another to suddenly be the group leader. All at once, you are in charge and no longer "one of them." Jealousy and skepticism become new adversaries. The student director must earn their fellow actors' respect or they will reject their leadership and the play is doomed. Therefore, in addition to directing skills already needed, this journey requires trust, strength and humility.