Play Directing, 7th Edition

Appendix 1

Musical Theatre and Opera

 

Although this book is not the place for detailed treatment of the directing of musicals and opera because each is a major study in itself, some mention is needed because every director, sooner or later, may have the opportunity to direct one of these forms. You may have little specialized background for dealing with musicals and operas, but considering them as part of your job will greatly expand your opportunities. A young director can feel relatively secure with much of modern drama and even some of the historical, but for many, musicals and operas are off the usual track. They present problems such as: How much do I know about music? About singing and dancing? About coordinating a staff of talented specialist ...