PROFESSOR OF THEATRE/ACTOR/DIRECTOR

Directing Philosophy

 

My directing philosophy is fairly simple. I believe the director is the lead artist in creating a theatrical event. I am not exactly blazing new trails by saying that the theatre is the most collaborative of all arts. Few collaborations, however, are effective without guidance. The contemporary director provides that guidance for all the artists whose talents contribute to the production. While I, as director, may provide the vision that shapes a production, I know that I don’t have all the answers. I am always delighted to hear a good idea from an actor or designer and incorporate it into a production. I am not particularly interested in Scott Mackenzie’s production of whatever. I am interested in creating the most powerful theatre experience for the audience that I, along with the company, can. 

 

Gordon Craig saw the director as the “artist of the theatre,” able to do it all, act and design everything, from lights to costumes and scenery. Specialized designers were, to him, merely craftsmen. I believe that the contemporary director is still an artist of the theatre, though not exactly as Craig defined the role. While I am capable of designing in a pinch, my strength is in communicating a vision to specialists and in being able to appreciate and utilize their unique and superior talents. Most importantly, I am able to communicate my vision to the actors who are the direct link to the audiences. If I can develop my vision while accepting and guiding other artists’ input, I will be a successful director.