Music Director/Pianist?

Hello,

I have been a rehearsal pianist and pit musician for quite a few community musical theatre shows and I'd like to venture into music direction. Is it typical for music directors to also double as a pianist or keyboard player? I would imagine it being quite challenging to conduct and play at the same time, but I'm sure it has been done before. Any tips on getting started?

I have recently been approached to musically direct a production of 'Into the Woods'. Having played the piano part for the show in the past, I'm not sure conducting and playing would work. Any thoughts?

Thanks!

A lot of shows I've been in the music director plays the piano in the pit also. they probably don't do a lot of that on Broadway, but many high schools and community theaters do that.