Plenty of us love being in the spotlight. Downstage centre, lapping up the applause and appreciation of a job well done. But the truth is, none of us would be there if it weren’t for our production teams, and heading up the whole operation is, of course, the director.
Yes, the director. They’re loved, feared and respected in equal measure. Do what they tell you and you’ll be on track for a sell-out performance. Cross them and you’ll be dancing on the back row, unlit and unloved.
But what does it take to be a director in BROS? How do our production teams handle the pressure of putting on a show from start to finish, all the while managing marketing, budgets, costumes, props and of course the cast? And, if you’re reading this and wondering how you can one day sit in the director’s chair, what do you need to know? We’ve asked three of our most recent directors (and some of our veterans) what advice they’d pass on.
Paul Turnbull – Director, A Little Night Music and Love & Promises
“Make sure you direct a show you absolutely love. Don’t compromise just because you want to direct. Think about the styles of your creative team and how you may, or may not work well together. When you find a combination that works, don’t change it.
“Don’t short change yourself on cast. Get the people you want, and when you have the cast, quickly work out what they are capable of and what they are not. Develop what they can do and don’t get hung up on what they can’t.
“Always have a plan, but be willing to change how the plan is executed. Remember to listen to the expertise of others, and look to learn rather than to be right all the time. Don’t feel like you have to have all the answers. As Sam Mendes said, use the imaginations in the room.
“For me, the fun was in creating a team as much as creating the show. Everyone in the team matters. Above all, enjoy the process of creating the show. The show week itself should be a bonus. And of course, the best way to keep the PSBs at bay is to start planning your next one.”
Nick Moorhead – Director, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying
““I had a show that I really wanted people to experience, not only for the audiences but for the performers too. The biggest lesson I learned was that no matter how prepared you think you are, there will always be something to challenge you. Advice I would pass on? Communication will always make your team stronger.”
Sarah Perkins, Assistant Director, The Producers
“As an actor I have had some brilliant directors, and some less so, but all have taught me a bit more about either my own skills or the craft of theatre and left me wondering what kind of director I would be.
“I know I have a lot left to learn, and at the moment I don’t have that ‘big picture’ ability the best directors seem to have so naturally (I have seen Debs handle questions about costume/props/dance/music cuts/scene direction all at the same time as ensuring Charlie doesn’t fall off a shed roof – skills!) but can’t wait to see the scenes come to life as the characters develop.
“So far I have quite happily sat back and enjoyed the ride whilst trying to work out whose house is the best option for the aftershow party, but now it’s time to lead rehearsals when the director isn’t available. Eek!
“If you’re reading this wondering if you could and should give it a shot, I say get involved. At every stage I have found supportive and experienced people ready to show me the ropes.”
Top tips:
Clare Henderson-Roe – “Work with a quality team, where each person understands the vision for the show, who can then work independently and together to realise a great production.”
Wesley Henderson-Roe – “Have a vision, discuss it with other directors, and don’t be ruled by any directions implicit in the book.”
Andy Yeates – “Give yourself time to plan how your belief in a show will actually work on stage, almost line by line, but certainly scene by scene.”
Deb McDowell – “Always approach cast availability promises with a great deal of scepticism and always build in some contingency. That way, you can remain smiley and composed just when others expect you to be having nervous breakdown.”
Want to get involved?
So, that’s how the professionals do it. Fancy a go? We’re always looking for new people to come on board with our production teams, and help to put on the high standard of shows that BROS is famous for. If you’ve got an idea for a show you’d love to put on, would like more experience of being part of a production team or would simply like to know more, then get in touch with us at committee@brostc.org.
