The Art and Practice of Directing for Theatre

Paul B. Crook is the Executive Director of the Etherredge Center for the Fine and Performing Arts, on the campus of the University of South Carolina Aiken, where he additionally serves on the theatre faculty. With over 20 years as a director, actor, and educator, Paul has worked in theatres across the country, from New Mexico to Ohio. He spent several years as the Associate Artistic Director of the Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival, in Durant, OK, and was the Artistic Director of the B & B Theatre, in Rustion, LA, a small, professional company he started with his wife, Mary Fran. As an arts educator, prior to his arrival at USCA, Paul served as the Directing and Acting Professor at Louisiana Tech University, Director of Theatre at Andrew College, and was on the faculty of Shelton State Community College. Paul and Mary Fran have four delightful children: George, CeCe, Bryant Ford, and Mary Ellis.

Introduction

I. Purpose of a Director

II. Skills Directors Need

III. Director’s "Rules"

IV. Approaching a Script

V. Approaching Rehearsals

VI. Concerning Rehearsals

VII. It’s Open...What Now?