What Directors Are Really Thinking

Written by Zachary Rivera

January 12, 2018

They’re in the corner during rehearsal. Their hand is over their mouth. Their brow is furrowed. And they can’t say the thing they’re dying to say.

1. They mentally check out.

Although they’ll pay attention and give you notes on your bajillionth run-through, they’d really rather be sleeping, but they don’t because they care!

2. When someone forgets a line in final dress rehearsal.

And yes, the director DID notice.

3. When they give you a note for the fifth time.

Take this advice: take the note the first time. You don’t want to see what happens.

4. When you make a good choice for your character.

It’s like you read their mind and started to really connect with your character. Good job!

5. When you make an ineffective choice for your character.

Maybe you went over the top, maybe it was the wrong emotion — but whatever it was they just need you to stop ASAP.

6. When they see the show come together for the first time.

They may not show it during notes, but seeing the show they created is absolutely unforgettable.

7. When they see you touching a prop that isn’t yours.

You know you shouldn’t be touching it, they know you shouldn’t be touching it, so don’t touch it unless you want to see the director lose it.

8. When they hear talking in the wings.

One of the most infuriating things for a director is hearing talking backstage during their show, so you have two options: Hope they don’t hear you, or zip it.

When a costume piece rips.

Take extra care of your costumes, so you don’t have to see their done face.

10. When the show opens.

You’ve worked hard, received many notes, and maybe a few screams but it’s time to open, and your director really couldn’t be prouder. Make sure to thank them!



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Zachary Rivera is an actor and previous high school thespian in Central Florida. He is currently attending Daytona State College on a theatre focus track to attain his A.A. He plans to transfer to a Musical Theatre BFA Program and continue his career on stage.