Notes on Directing: 130 Lessons in Leadership from the Director's Chair - Hardcover

Hauser, Frank; Reich, Russell

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0972425500 ISBN 13: 9780972425506

Publisher: RCR Creative Press, 2003

Synopsis

Presents suggestions and basic principles for directing plays, including understanding the script, the director's role, casting, rehearsal rules, talking to actors, and getting a laugh.

About this title

From the Inside Flap

In 1987, British Director Frank Hauser quietly handed twelve pages of typewritten notes to his apprentice, American Russell Reich. The notes—gathered over a long career and polished to a sharp edge—documented the teachings and directions that Hauser shared privately with a host of theatrical and cinematic figures, including Sir Alec Guinness, Richard Burton, Peter O'Toole, Sir Ian McKellen, Dame Judi Dench, Kevin Spacey, and many others who called Hauser their director, mentor, teacher, or boss.

Now, the former student has expanded and enhanced his mentor's private notes into a book-length format suitable for anyone searching for the timeless gems of the director's craft. Drawing on years of training, decades of experience, and the distilled wisdom of leading practitioners, "Notes on Directing" is filled with enduring good advice expressed in assertive, no-nonsense language. More than a "how-to," this is a tool for directors looking to better translate the page to the stage -- or to the screen. With one hundred and thirty directives supported with explanatory commentary, helpful examples, and rare quotes, this deceptively slim volume has the impact of a privileged apprenticeship to a great master.

Whether you are a student or a professional, a playgoer, moviegoer, or enthusiast, Notes on Directing provides a thrilling glimpse into the hidden process of creating a live, shared experience.

About the Author

FRANK HAUSER is a retired freelance director living in London. Born in Wales in 1922, he attended Oxford University during the 1940s; worked as a drama producer for the BBC; and, in 1956, formed the Meadow Players at Oxford. He was Director of the Oxford Playhouse for seventeen years and directed frequently in London and New York. In 1968, he received the award of Commander of the Order of the British Empire (C.B.E.), one of the most prestigious honors given by the Queen of England.

RUSSELL REICH is a writer and creative director living in New York City. Born in 1963, he served as visiting artist-in-residence at Harvard University, artistic associate at Circle Repertory Company in New York, and member of the Circle Rep Director's Lab.

Edition details

• Publisher: RCR Creative Press
• Publication date: 2003
• ISBN 10: 0972425500
• ISBN 13: 9780972425506
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 160