Theatre director : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates, a degree in one of the following subjects may improve your chances:

• English literature;
• drama/theatre studies;
• music;
• creative/performing arts;
• languages;
• humanities-based subjects involving thought, reflection and interpretation, e.g. philosophy, history, psychology.

Entry is also open to all diplomates, but the following HND/foundation degree subjects may improve your chances:

• creative/performing arts;
• drama/theatre studies;
• music;
• arts in the community.

Entry without a degree or HND/foundation degree is possible, e.g. through reputation and experience as an actor, writer, designer, producer, assistant director or stage manager.

Postgraduate courses are not essential if you have a relevant degree or a certain amount of practical experience. Graduates from non-relevant disciplines may choose to do postgraduate study but should ensure the course has a strong emphasis on practical skills.

You should gain practical theatre experience in acting, stage management and, particularly, direction in amateur or fringe theatre, e.g. through youth theatre or a student drama society group. For a list of theatre companies that may provide work experience or work shadowing opportunities see Get into Theatre .

Consider forming your own theatre company. This is a great way to learn about the directing process and how to work with actors and other members of the production team.

Try and get work as an assistant. The British Theatre Directory  and British Performing Arts Yearbook provide contacts for speculative applications. Use a targeted CV and covering letter to explain why you want to work with a particular director and include all relevant experience on your CV.

In addition, candidates will need to show evidence of the following:

• an ability to express yourself both orally and in writing and to be creative, persuasive and prepared to take artistic risks;
• excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills;
• self-motivation and the ability to motivate and inspire others;
• teamworking and time management skills;
• awareness and understanding of technical issues, the workings of a theatre and the process of performance and acting;
• ability to develop innovative ideas and to solve problems creatively and practically;
• organisational and research skills;
• knowledge of the requirements of the relevant health and safety legislation and procedures;
• dedication and enthusiasm.

Theatre directors must also consider issues of ethics and authorship. Understanding all types of theatre, as well as having an awareness of audiences, resources and investors, is vital. Work may come from many avenues and you will need to show flexibility in your approach.

Try to see as many productions as you can, taking in a wide range of styles in a variety of different venues. Talk to the people who are creating the work. Often, there are question and answer sessions with directors after a performance. Also, read plays and novels, adaptations and screenplays.

Learn more about the organisational structure of a theatre by working with the front-of-house team, perhaps as a steward or box-office clerk. Consider other roles, for example in the wardrobe department, with the stage crew, or in the lighting or sound departments. All theatre experience is useful and provides you with knowledge of how the different theatre departments work, vital when directing a play. For more tips on how to get into theatre work see Get into Theatre .

Networking is a key factor in getting work - many jobs are filled through contacts made whilst working - so keep a list of contacts you make in the field and stay in touch on a regular basis.

The Directors Guild Trust and Directors Guild of Great Britain  operate together and membership is open to students as well as professional directors. Benefits include discounts on training and events, as well as access to advice guides and a model freelancer's contract.

Some theatres offer training bursaries for young directors and it is worth doing some research to find out if any are available. Regional arts councils may offer grants to individuals. Competition for any type of sponsorship is intense.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.