Walter Meierjohann’s Tips for Aspiring Directors

To celebrate #LoveTheatreDay, our Artistic Director of Theatre, Walter Meierjohann, gives his top tips for aspiring directors. 

1. See lots of shows. This will give you a good knowledge of what is out there, what other directors are doing, and may influence the type of work you want to create. You will also decide what kind of work you do NOT want to create.

2. Assist on at least three productions. By working with at least three different directors, you will gain practical experience and see different types of directing in action. This will undoubtedly influence your own directing style and will give you crucial links with people ‘in the know’.

3. Make your own work. Do what you feel is right for you. Explore ideas. Get out there and do it.

4. Soak up as much culture as you possibly can. Listen to music. Read lots of plays. Visit exhibitions. Everything is a potential stimulus for ideas and could be used in your work.

5. Set yourself goals. Give yourself an idea of what your want to have achieved in five years time. What kind of work do you want to be making? Where can you see yourself doing this? What is your ultimate goal?

You can hear from theatres, directors, actors and companies around the world by following the #LoveTheatreDay conversation on Twitter on Wednesday 18 November. If you want to find out more about becoming a Theatre Producer or Stage Manager, join our live Twitter Q&A on Wednesday 18 November from 15:00 – 16:00.