Directing

[jeniferrenepatricia]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 12:44am

My parish has asked me to run an after school theater program, most of the children range from ages 6 to 13. The goal is to start a community theater- first show with the hcildren, then we would like to get some adults involved once we can get evening hours. I would like to direct a musical, but I don't have any directing experience. I have choreographed many shows through the years, and played some bit parts also. I directed two one-act straight plays, but never a musical with children. Any suggestions for some books I can read on directing?

[Robert Taylor]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 12:46am

I can't think of books off the top of my head, but my advice is to look at a lot of amateur theater on Youtube and see what works and what doesn't, specifically with children's theater. For example, herding the children and putting them into a big group on stage often ends with them "ad-libbing" and taking the emphasis off of the leads.

[CATSNYrevival]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 1:03am

Thank your lucky stars. I'd kill for such an opportunity.

[jeniferrenepatricia]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 1:32am

I am very grateful for the opportunity...I don't want to screw it up, so that's why I posted for advice.

[Q]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 3:15am

Is it necessary to jump right in with a musical? That adds a layer of complication that I would avoid, if possible. There are plenty of children's theatre pieces that are 'straight' drama (or comedy, obviously.) Adding the element of music takes things to a very different level - and, if this is your 'first time', it might be prudent to keep things as simple as you can.

[CapnHook]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 9:21am

There is a book called "How To Direct A Musical"

[Borstalboy]

Posted: 10/8/08 at 12:09pm

Sense of Direction....still the best book on directing ever

[jeniferrenepatricia]

Posted: 10/9/08 at 12:41am

Thank you everyone...borstalboy, I just ordered that book!!!

[Borstalboy]

Posted: 10/9/08 at 9:29am

It's a great read. He doesn't touch too much on musicals, so you might want to explore further.

[Mekroth]

Posted: 10/9/08 at 10:26am

The idiot's guide to amateur theatricals really helped me.