Directing Philosophy

I believe that a theatre director has a profound responsibility. I want to capture the ephemeral nature of live theatre. In a world consumed by technology, artifice, and disposability, I want to create things that remind us of the beautiful vulnerability of our essential humanity. Theatre reveals to us what it means to be human in a way that no other experience does.

There is something so deeply human, and so beautiful about creating a once in a lifetime, specific expression that only exists right here, right now, and then is gone forever. Yet in that brief moment, we can explore the questions that inspire humanity as a whole. That is why theatre -this form of storytelling – resonates deeply inside of us. In the eternal scheme of things our time on this earth is just as ephemeral as a single play performance. What is important is the care, craft, and heart that we give in this brief moment. We are here, we explore the essence of the existence, we connect and express what it is to be human and then we are gone with the fading of the lights. Never to be seen the same again. All that remains is the whisper of what we created, the feelings and thoughts that we inspire in those with whom we share this single moment in time.

I believe that a director must be brave and bold enough to explore the infinite possibilities and potential in a work. A director must analyze a text in order to get to the core, the essential meaning, of the piece that they are creating and provide ownership and excitement for designers, actors, and musicians.

A director must be in some ways an orchestra conductor – able to single out each instrument and clarify it, yet never losing sight of the overall sound of the collective. It is this ability to maintain both the artistic and visionary perspective that is a vital skill for a director. My experiences as a designer and actor have given me the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse group of artists. It is part of my job to oversee and reinforce a common language. My understanding of the design process and the techniques of actors allows me to be clear in sharing the metaphor and vision of the play with the designers – and my experience as an actor makes me able to push artists to provide their best work. In short, I am able to effectively lead and guide an ensemble of artists through effective communication and sharing the spark of excitement and engagement with all collaborators.