Theatre Etiquette - Multiple Shows?

Thinking about this topic some more, I was reminded of when I did a short SM stint at St Martins. I was working closely with a director, who although was being paid (probably very little), did not turn up for more than one show during the season. I've heard rumours of other professional directors similarly not appearing for the performances, except for perhaps opening night. While I could accuse the director of not caring - or being 'professional' in terms of their behaviour - but it does occur to me that there is another factor. That is payment. If a director (or actor/etc.) is contracted on to create a show, and unless specified and paid to do so, they may not 'have' to show up to performances. Only perhaps, rehearsals. I know it's not likely, but as with the above rumour, it was suggested to me that directors 'can' leave without actually overseeing the performances (since in many cases, the SM has the notes/blocking/prompt copy, and is in charge of running the production anyway), and therefore many 'professional' directors don't attend the shows. IMHO - and the reason I used apostrophes - this is a stupid excuse for lazy directors not to bother turning up when they have the least amount of control and input. Ie. job's done, cast and crew know what they're doing, I can't do much else. Anyway, it just popped into my head... Sticky Apple Legs www.freewebs.com/stickyapplelegs Puppets in Melbourne www.thepromptcopy.com/pip My puppets www.collectzing.com/collection/137/