Director Instructions

pt. 1

  1. First, read through the script with very little emotion or intention. This is called a flat read.
  2. Then discuss the possibilities with the group members (this is called table work):
  3. Who are the characters?
  4. Where and when are they?
  5. What are they doing? (the “business” of the scene: what’s happening while the conversation is happening)
  6. Instruct actors to read through, now making choices based on the conversation. Start to incorporate character, emotion, etc.
  7. Now do a stop & go read through. When you (as director) hear a line that could be said differently, instruct the actor to make a different choice. Do not read the line for them. Acting is not copying; each line should be inspired by the actor’s intention.

pt. 2

  1. Lay out the set with the actors. Where is the audience? Where is the entrance to the stage? Is there a chair, a table?
  2. Instruct actors to read the lines again in the space. Move around as they please.
  3. Ask actors questions to think about. Directors don’t tell, they guide.
  4. How does this character move?
  5. Which character is more powerful? (Levels such as sitting & standing help show the answer to the audience)
  6. How can they show the emotion through their body and face?
  7. Rehearse the scene a few more times. Give actors freedom to make new choices. When the actor makes a choice you like, share that you liked it.

Notes

**If an actor makes a choice you don’t like, it’s likely they didn’t like it either. Ask them how it felt, and then ask them to try something else.**

**Directors play the part of audience, so look upon the scene as if you know nothing about it. How are they helping you understand it?**

**Does the scene make sense for the situation?**