049 We devised, but I directed? After devising a piece as a group, giving freedom to the actors.. the question of ownership and ‘did you really direct

Conveners: Myro, Samal

Participants: Steve, Phelim,

Summary of discussion, conclusions and/or recommendations:

- The Problem is very common (you are not alone),
- only happens when a piece is successful
- this is a normal process for good devised work

Can be avoided by:
- CLARITY
- Explaining style of directing. Sometimes ‘alternative’ style (less dictatorial, more about creating an environment for actors to explore), causes confusion as if this is directing.
- having clear roles from the beginning (i.e. contracts)
- be sure of your roles/inhabit the role completely

- people seem to need safety given by roles
- fixed roles become especially important when the devising system starts to
interact with outside systems.

Possible ways to help ensuring/ finding out who the director is:
- ask yourself if the show would have been shit, who would have been blamed?
- Who would have taken responsibility?
- Who sat down and started the process (also applies for company founding)

For Help go to:
ITC – independent theatre company
Directors guild (join)