Direction and Production Process
This domain tests the director's organisational and interpretive role from script selection to opening night. You should know rehearsal stages, production paperwork, and how technical elements are integrated.
Core process
- The director interprets the script, defines a concept, casts actors, and shapes blocking and rhythm.
- A production calendar sequences auditions, read-throughs, blocking rehearsals, scene work, runs, tech, dress, and opening.
- The prompt book records blocking, cues, contact details, and production decisions.
- Production meetings coordinate set, light, sound, costume, make-up, and front-of-house.
- Cue-to-cue and technical rehearsals integrate actors with light and sound before dress rehearsals.
Worked example
A director schedules the first tech rehearsal on the opening morning. Reasoning: this leaves no time to fix cue errors, sightline problems, or costume changes. A safer plan places cue-to-cue and tech rehearsal before dress rehearsals, with a full run and notes session after each. The director must protect time for integration, not only acting rehearsal.
Exam traps
- Treating direction as telling actors what to feel.
- Ignoring technical rehearsals until the last moment.
- Failing to record blocking and cues in the prompt book.
- Casting without checking availability and commitment.
- Changing the concept without rechecking script evidence.