At the core of every theatre production comes the role of what inspires the works on stage, the Director and Assistant Director. If you’re a student looking for that creative outlet in putting a show together then Top Hat Theatrics is a great space to allow art to flourish and minds to come together!
By definition, an Assistant Director is: An assistant director in theatre supports the director in all aspects of a production, from initial concept to final performance, acting as the in between person to communicating to others for the Director, taking notes, and assisting with various requests and rehearsal tasks. They may also lead rehearsals with understudies or specific groups of actors if the Director is absent.
What is Top Hat Looking for when selecting an Assistant Director?
- We recommend Students ages 13+ to sign up.
- You are able to read, analyze, interpret, and talk through a given shows storyline.
- Have the drive to study and prepare scenes at home before providing the foundation to the cast during rehearsals.
- A note taker! As you watch your performers you must be able to suggest improvements and different ways to deliver lines and blocking on stage.
- You are directable! One who directs must be able to take feedback and strive to improve themselves!
- Take the initiative. Remember, you are part of the core group that makes the shows happen, people will be looking to you for direction!
What Students develop from being an Assistant Director:
- Leadership and Confidence – Growing your voice and being comfortable with speaking to a group of people, most often in this case a group of people your own age and at times adults during production meetings and tech week.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving – Directors handles all things rehearsal down to the blocking, vision of the show, scheduling what scenes and musical numbers to be worked, and ensuring the show is coming together before tech week. Students will grow their ability to prioritize the needs of others, collaborating with others in organizational and artistic formats, and as well become a reliable person in resolving problems!
- Communication Skills – Having the ability to know in what way is best to communicate whether it’s in person, email, or by phone. Gaining the understanding of how to communicate directions based on the person you’re speaking. Note, you will be working kids of all ages and walks of life, consider their perception and how they receive direction!
- Self Advocacy – We would not be where we are as Top Hat if we did not actively speak up for ourselves and vocalize the needs of the show in order for it to be a successful one.
- Stress Management – Being in a position where there are many moving parts is certainly challenging, but by undergoing the role of Asst Director you will grow to understand how to prioritize needs of the show and that stress is only a temporary feeling that can be conquered!
Some questions we get most often:
Do I show up to every rehearsal?
Yes, you are required to show up to every rehearsal, production meeting, designer runs, and tech week/performances.
Will I be in the show as a cast member and Tech Member?
No, due to the demands of Tech Crew being in the booth it would not be possible.
Is there a cost for becoming an Asst Director?
A one time $300.00 fee is charged for the cost of being Assistant Director PER show.
Will there be an opportunity to be an official Director for a show?
The answer for this is certainly complicated. The role of a Director requires many factors as they are seen as the core piece in a shows production to the big stage. We require at least 2 years of Assistant Director experience before being considered. Top Hat Board Members will assess and speak with the students parents of where they are at in terms of strengths and opportunities in the Assistant Director role. We strongly ask that if you’re focused on becoming a Director that you spend the time to understand how much all goes into the role as there are numerous responsibilities that are required outside of the rehearsal process and the cast, and company, will be looking to the Director for executing the show as best as possible and in a timely manner. Lastly, if there is consideration for a Director role, there will be an interview conducted by Top Hat Board Members.
What will I do as Assistant Director?
- Study and understand a show in its full capacity. This must be done at home, consider this the Directors version of “homework”.
- Collaborate with the Directors actively in what their vision is for the show. You are there to see their vision fulfilled and support their needs.
- Block scenes with the Directors. You will be given scenes to block and give direction to cast based on your experience. This varies greatly, but for example if it is your first time Assistant Directing you will be given one scene of the Directors choosing to block with their help.
- Contribute your thoughts, ideas, and the visions you have as an artist with your Director.
On the form below, please select “Asst Director” as the role.