Directing theatre: improvers

About this course

Participants develop their directing practice through work on plays ranging from Shakespeare to Chekhov, selecting material and examining rehearsal processes in detail. The course includes opportunities to direct fellow students and volunteer actors, with group or pair work arranged according to the cast requirements of each play. Sessions also consider how directing approaches can respond to different playwrights and texts, from classical to contemporary material. Participants work with a range of scripts while developing their own directing style and voice.

What you'll learn

• Direct actors in a scene
• Adapt a directing style to suit different playwrights and texts
• Identify a personal directing style and director’s voice

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners who have completed Directing beginners, as well as people with acting experience or knowledge of plays who want to direct. The Improver label suggests study beyond an introductory course, but does not by itself establish a formal prerequisite. Participation includes group or pair work, feedback, and reading and responding to texts.

• Fluent English is listed as part of the course requirements.
• Some sessions may involve rigorous physical activity.

Before you go

• Script extracts are provided.
• Participants may choose to buy their own copies of the texts used.
• Access to the Nick Hern book collection via Drama Online is included.
• Participants may occasionally be asked to take part in rigorous activity; those with concerns are advised to consult a medical practitioner.