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how do you evaluate a director's work?

Thu, 26 Mar 2009, 05:59 pm
Lisa Skryp49 posts in thread
I have been reflecting on my reactions to theatre that I see. As an actor who has yet to tackle directing, I realise I generally look at things from that point of view. My observations re: lighting/set design/sound are generally minimal - unless it is particularly amazing or dreadful. Sad I know, but true. As to the direction of a show, it is a similar thing for me; unless someone makes some very different thematic/interpretive/stylistic departure from the expected, I don't tend to notice & the lucky actors get all the credit for a great show. To me it would seem that if a director has done a good job, no one will really notice, as the show will flow smoothly, tell the tale effectively & captivate as it should. Just wondering - how do you evaluate a director's work? What are your thoughts on this, folks?

collaborator versus visionary

Wed, 13 May 2009, 08:25 pm
I think the idea of the director as a collaborator is powerful, and is one way of engaging the cast and crew . . . securing their ownership of the success of, and work involved in, the project. And yes . . . preconceived ideas can limit creativity . . . if the preconception is accompanied by an inability to recognise opportunities for play improvement and development. But . . . There is a place for the visionary director . . . one who has a unique and unsual approach, and seeks to realise that vision . . . and brings with him or her a preconceived idea. The task for this director is to be able to sell that idea to the cast . . . to get them to buy into the idea in such a way that it can be actualised, and not derailed through 'rule by committee'.

Thread (49 posts)

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