It’s not a glamorous industry. It’s all about hard work.
Some have asked me for help and advice for their creative career.
Here are some thoughts I learnt from others and during my own journey:
1. Relationship, relationship and relationship. Make time to know your team, understand their skill levels, capabilities and limitations. If your team trust you, they will follow you.
2. See the big picture. Have in mind all the elements that are needed and don’t lose focus. Sometimes the people around you won’t understand your decisions. They don’t need to, it’s not for them to see the big picture.
3. Come prepared!
4. Be several steps ahead. Always have a plan and give your actors as much of head ups as possible.
5. Up-skill yourself. Have a holistic approach because you want to and can always be better.
6. Relax and be confident. You don’t have to have all the answers, but you do need to back yourself. Look for answers. Be honest to your team. Trust them and their ability. Stay calm and have fun!
The industry is incredibly competetive. You have to be 100 percent commited to work in theatre and be extremely passionate about the work. Talent is not enough. It’s a 7-day-week job, essantially working afternoons, evenings and weekends. An effective director takes initiative and plans ahead, not leaving many things to chance or reacting at the last second. It’s not a glamorous industry. It’s all about hard work.
