First Time Director

December 18, 2008

director This weekend – Sunday the 21st to be exact – will be the opening of the first project I’ve ever directed. It’s a play reading that will take place at Stage West Theatre.

The play is the winner of Stage West’s Annual Texas Playwriting Competition, and as a result it’s going to be read in front of an audience in a professional theatre.

It has been the best possible first experience with directing. It’s lighter than a staged play because there’s no movement, no lighting, and no sound – and, I’ve enjoyed this opportunity to walk before I run.

Also, not only is the play great – It’s well written, and very intelligent, not to mention funny – but, the cast is superb.

A director talking about directing once said, “Find the right cast and you can’t help but succeed,” and he was absolutely right.

In the right hands, the characters of a play can run seamlessly into the story and completely immerse the audience; and I was extremely lucky to have gotten such a talented and committed cast of actors.

I hope you’ll find the opportunity to come by Stage West on Sunday to see the reading. Tickets are free – although, of course, Stage West always welcomes donations, and there will be snacks and refreshments as well as an open bar.

If you come by, be sure to say hello and let me know you read this post – who knows, maybe I’ll buy you a drink.