Director Case Study

The source for much of this post is here...

Question 1: What is the most rewarding aspect of working as a Director?

Answer: Seeing the play come together at the dress rehearsal and knowing my work is done.

Question 2: What are the key skills required to be an effective Director?

Answer: Communication, organisational skills, creativity, willingness to listen but also knowing how to politely get others to shut up.

Question 3: Do you see your role as a natural step on a career ladder, and if so what is the next rung?

Answer: Directing for bigger venues for longer runs. Ideally a national tour.

Question 4: How did you work your way into your current role?

Answer: Mainly by bullshitting.

Question 5: How much do you think networking helps towards landing a job in the industry?

Answer: I don't find networking parties etc help, but it is always useful to tell friends of friends what you are doing, and when they say what they are doing, I often offer my services. About two out of five times they accept.

Question 6: Do you think you will be working in the industry in the next five years, and if so in what capacity?

Answer: Yes. Ideally doing more writing.

Question 7: Please describe what a typical day working as a Director might contain?

Answer: A lot of checking of emails, and re-reading scripts with fine toothcombs.

Question 8: Have you done any additional training courses to further your career?

Answer: Several workshops at the Young Vic.

Question 9: How important is working for free at the beginning of your career?

Answer: Very. And not just at the start of the career. If I think I will learn from a project, I'll do it.

Hugh's Directing CV

Hugh has TWICE received five stars in What's On.

Hugh has appeared in various films. and acts

Lady Deborah's Father/Assistant Director

More key facts

Wireless Theatre

Now why do a blog about Hugh?

Well, firstly, because the Q/A might be useful to all budding Directors. Secondly because Hugh WROTE one of the three plays ('Call On Me') being shown at 'Heir of The Dog' (details below) DIRECTED all three and also co-produced. 

Therefore if you're wondering whether to come - just look at the track record of the person most intimately involved in it! (Then come along...)

7.30pm on Tues 20^th, Wed 21^st and Thurs 22^nd November 2012.

At The Dogstar, 389 Coldharbour Lane, London, SW9 8LQ.
(Nearest tube: Brixton).

by Chris Sivewright (co-producer)