Directing
The application procedure
Each society’s committee sets a deadline for applying to
direct, generally early in the term preceding the production. Camdram.net publishes details of as many of these as possible, but you may also like to check Varsity and other student publications. In most cases the show is chosen by the applicants, although occasionally the committee chooses a show and advertises for a
director. It’s not compulsory but often encouraged to apply with a
producer already on board. Where applicable, a
musical director and
choreographer may also be pre-appointed. However, many societies will not allow you applications with other positions filled (technical, artistic or cast). Members of the society’s committee will discuss the proposals with the applicant in an informal interview before making a decision on whether or not they can fund it.
What does a director do?
The
director is in overall charge of the artistic aspects of a show. Most obviously this entails taking rehearsals but liaison with the production team on
design issues is also essential. In addition, there is an administrative side to the job: in conjunction with the
producer, rehearsal space needs to be found and booked (not an easy job) making sure everyone is informed of when and where they are required.
Writing an application
Show slots are often fiercely contested. It’s worth spending as much time as possible writing and fine-tuning an application. Although each society considers submissions in a different way, if applying you may like to think about:
- why you wish to direct the show in question;
- what you want to do with the show: what unique quality you think you would bring to the production as director;
- the target audience of your show: if it’s to be staged in Cambridge, it may be predominantly students, but it’s still worth considering who will buy tickets. If you have any ideas for publicity, it’s a good idea to outline them in your application;
- an estimated budget for the show: few societies will take on a production likely to make a loss.
It is perfectly acceptable to submit the same application to a number of societies in order to maximize your chances of funding. It’s also worth remembering most societies mount shows in multiple venues and vice versa; in particular if you want a slot at the ADC Theatre, you don’t have to apply through the Amateur Dramatic Club. Feel free to discuss your application with a member of the society’s committee before formally submitting it.
Last edited Thu 6th Sep 2007 by Stuart Cuthbertson
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