acting techniques
The different acting techniques for developing lifelike performances, such as method acting, classical acting, and Meisner technique.
Stage directors oversee and orchestrate the mounting of a performance production by unifying various endeavours and aspects of a theatrical production. They ensure the quality and completeness of the theatrical production and lead the members of the creative team into realising their artistic vision for it.
Competences and skills
25 ESCO relationsEssential knowledge 1 competence
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Cross-sector
1 competenceEssential skills and competences 13 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
13 competencesadapt a script
Adapt a script and, if the play is newly written, work with the writer or collaborate with playwrights.
adapt designers’ work to the performance venue
Reorient the work of performance collaborators, such as musicians, dancers, actors as well as artistic and technical collaborators, such as set designers, lighting operators and stage managers.
analyse a script
Break down a script by analysing the dramaturgy, form, themes and structure of a script. Conduct relevant research if necessary.
assemble an artistic team
Bring together an artistic team, after identifying the needs, looking for candidates, conducting interviews and aligning on the conditions of the project.
carry out auditions
Hold auditions and assess and select candidates for roles in the productions.
cue a performance
Plan the technical actions and interventions during an artistic performance. Determine when actors go on and off stage. Make sure these cues are followed to ensure a smooth running of the performance.
develop drama production process
Have and develop a thorough understanding of the dramatic production process.
direct an artistic team
Lead and instruct a complete team with the required cultural expertise and experience.
evaluate art quality
Correctly evaluate the quality of art objects, artefacts, photographs and documents.
find a replacement for stage manager
Take over tasks from the stage manager as required. Indicate key standby moments. Indicate when the house is open. Confirm that the performers are in position. Indicate the start of the performance. Indicate the entrances and exits of scenery elements when necessary.
maintain blocking notes
Create and update blocking notes recording the position of actors and props in every scene. These notes are shared with the director, technical director and cast.
read scripts
Read a playbook or film script, not only as literature, but identifying, actions, emotional states, evolution of characters, situations, different sets and locations, etc.
work with playwrights
Work with writers through workshops or script development schemes.
Cross-sector
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Optional skills and competences 11 competences
Occupation specific
0 competencesNo competences in this bucket.
Sector-specific
10 competencescommunicate expectations of fight actions
Agree with the director or choreographer on key ideas expected from the fight action and develop them. Convey the key ideas of the other collaborators, designers, etc. Explain choices in a broad perspective. Identify key points to be communicated. Indicate the work method to be used. Explain the rehearsal stages from the start up to the first performance.
determine context to present the work
Propose the theatre, hall, other venue, or outdoors space where the performance will be shown. Determine the mode of presentation, the target audience, etc. Define the relationship with the audience.
ensure visual quality of the set
Inspect and amend the scenery and set-dressing to make sure the visual quality is optimal with in constraints of time, budget and manpower.
follow time cues
Observe the conductor, orchestra or director and follow text and vocal score to time cues accurately.
identify technical resources for performances
Identify the technical equipment required for rehearsals and performances and the necessary production elements such as sets, props and costumes.
manage prompt book
Prepare, create and maintain the prompt book for a theatrical production.
organise rehearsals
Manage, schedule and run rehearsals for the performance.
prompt performers
Prompt performers in theatrical and opera productions.
select music for performance
Select pieces of music for a live performance. Consider factors such as ensemble abilities, availability of scores and the need for musical variety.
write technical riders
Participate in all aspects of the creation of technical riders. Create, or help create, cues for the technical crew in coordination with creators, directors and designers team. Verify that the crew understand the cues. Write a list of technical specifications. Indicate the performance schedule and specify needs related to staging the production.
Cross-sector
1 competencemanage budgets
Plan, monitor, report on the budget and prepare set production budgets.