Write these two phrases on the chalkboard and then explain that they represent two styles of directing.

Sage on the stage

• The director uses his vision to shape every aspect of the performance. For example, he or she explains the motivation to the actors and the emotions they should portray to make the character clear to the audience.

Guide by the side

• The director gives rudimentary directions and allows the individuals he or she is working with to develop their aspect of the show. For example, he or she explains the overall motivation for a character and leaves it up to the actor to develop the emotional background and delivery to support that motivation.

Show the TV Program  - An Adventure of the Mind: Director

 

The objective is to arrange themselves so they resemble a machine. Using their bodies and voices, students do motions and make sounds. Three machines will be constructed using a different task each time. A 10-minute time limit should be set for the construction of each machine. After a discussion, the students will prepare a written job description for a director.

1. The first machine is constructed allowing everyone to make suggestions during the construction process. 

2. The second machine is constructed using the ideas of only one student. All students can make comments, but one student makes the final decisions and directs the others. 

3. The third machine is constructed after a brainstorming session in which all participate. During construction one student picks the best ideas from the brainstorming session and then acts as director while the other students follow his or her instructions without comment.

Suggestions for Machines:

• Turns the light on when the sun goes down.

• Creates shade on a lawn chair on a partially cloudy day (shade when the sun is out, no shade when the sun goes behind a cloud).

• Washes the chalkboard.

• Opens the door when someone knocks.

• Closes the door when the wind blows.

Discussion questions:

1. Which method created the best machine, with a brainstorming session or without?

2. Which was easier, with all participants being able to comment or with just the director giving directions?

3. Which was faster?

4. Does having one vision make construction easier or harder?

5. Does having the ideas generated during the brainstorming session help the process? 

6. Is it easier to develop a machine if you make it up as you go along or if you have a plan beforehand?

7. Is it easier to direct if everyone contributes during the building process or if they have their say beforehand and then follow directions. 

 

Based on the discussion above, is the person in charge a Director or Dictator:

1. Should a director include the cast and crew in developing the show?

2. Should the actor and crew expect to be consulted on every decision during production?

3. Should the director expect the cast and crew to follow directions to create his or her vision?

4. Can there be more than one vision of how a production should look?

5. Is it easier to direct a cast and crew if their ideas have been considered before decisions are made?

6. Can a director take the time to listen to all ideas during production?

7. Does the amount of time available to put a production together dictate the method of directing?

 

Based on the discussion, each student group should write a job description for a director and put the tasks in order of importance.