Website URL First Run Theatre
Producing only new works by Midwestern playwrights
First Run Theatre To Offer Director’s Workshop
So You Want to be a Director?
Are you passionate about theatre and curious about the art of stage directing? This hands-on workshop is designed to help you explore the fundamentals of directing and determine if this creative path is right for you. Over the course of five weeks, you’ll gain practical experience and insights into the role of a director, from conceptualization to execution.
Join us for this immersive workshop and take the first step toward becoming a confident and capable stage director. Whether you’re exploring directing for the first time or looking to refine your skills, this workshop offers a supportive environment to learn and grow.
The workshop will be taught by Phil Gill, former adjunct professor at Lindenwood University, who has directed for many theater companies in the St. Louis Region, including First Run Theatre.
Cost for participants is $150 for the five week session. Classes will be held Saturdays, January 11 – February 8 and will be at St. John The Baptist Church, 4200 Delor in South St. Louis. For more information, please email firstruntheatre@gmail.com
Week 1: Analysis and Concept Development
Dive into the director’s role in analyzing a script and developing a directorial concept. Learn how to craft a vision for a production and communicate that vision effectively to your team. This week will cover techniques for interpreting text and translating ideas into a cohesive concept.
Week 2: Groundplan and Stage Composition
Explore the process of designing a stage layout that enhances storytelling. We will focus on creating effective groundplans and stage compositions that support dramatic action. Gain practical skills in arranging the stage to develop clear and dynamic blocking for actors.
Week 3: Communication with Actors and Neutral Scenes
Master the art of directing actors through effective communication. This week emphasizes strategies for guiding performances and providing constructive feedback. Practice these skills by directing short, neutral scenes to apply your communication techniques.
Week 4: Auditions, Casting, and Rehearsal Scheduling
Learn the essentials of the casting process, from auditions and callbacks to final casting decisions. This week will also cover the logistical aspects of creating a rehearsal schedule, ensuring that your production runs smoothly from start to finish.
Week 5: Rehearsal and Integration
Apply all the skills and techniques learned in the previous weeks by running a full rehearsal. This final week will provide you with the opportunity to integrate your directorial vision, stage composition, and actor communication into a cohesive rehearsal process.