When you direct, how do you approach the process? I have encountered a number of different directors - all talented and smart, with drastically different methods. Some examples: 1. Blocking is done with precise "point A to point B, to point C, etc" placements; each 'point of placement' being anchored to a given word in the text. In Rehearsals from there on, actors literally do what they want to create the story telling between 'points', as long as they are where they are supposed to be on each of those anchor words. 2. Blocking is essentially "choreographed" moment by moment, and presented to be done in a flowing fashion, with every movement envisioned by the director. In Rehearsal from there on, actors drill scenes and its second nature. 3. Blocking is given by general goals of "cross here, sit there, advance on this line, retreat here, stop there, etc.." And then the directors is particular about certain "bits" and "moments", but for the most part, the actors develop their own character 'ticks' and fill in the spaces between the bits and moments. ... SO, my question is, from any of those three brief examples or a combination of either: what are your thoughts? I am not looking for a specific answer, merely the opinions on directing styles. Suggestions, cautions, past experiences, tips, and tricks. Aaaaand Go!
Anything Goes : Hands "on" or "off". by Kris Monroe
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I approach every work experimentally, so the process changes depending on the show and the participants (actors). It's just more fun and crazy that way.
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I've directed a couple of plays now, and it's been a case of developing the characters with the actors, so the blocking emerges organically from the characters' motivations at each point.
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Some actors can't function unless you tell them where to go on the stage. Others feel boxed in when you give them precise directions. I have found it's best if the actors have some improv training, so they can go with the flow...but it's been many years since I've directed/assisted.
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You describe perfectly Robert Altman on one end of the scale and Stanley Kubric on the other. The chemistry you have with the cast will have an influence on where your skills are effective.
I like to set pictures.... then let my actors find their way way from picture to picture
Every play is different. As a director your responsibility is to make sense and stay with the plot. You have hired the actors and blocked them, then they rehearse as they see their own part. Again this May or may not be what is the best thing for the show. So as director you need to make changes and be able to explain just why these changes in an actors performance makes sense. I hope this helps.