Director Checklist
Phase-by-phase task list for the Director — check off as you complete. Companion to the Director role guide; the role doc has narrative context, this is the tick-box working version.
Pre-Production Phase
Initial Preparation
- Obtain and read script thoroughly
- Write mission and vision statement for the production
- Share vision statement with production team
- Develop comprehensive script analysis
- Identify challenging staging/technical requirements
- Create preliminary character breakdown
Team Collaboration
- Attend onboarding meeting with full production team
- Participate in all scheduled production meetings
- Meet individually with Music Director
- Meet individually with Choreographer
- Meet individually with each Designer (Set, Costume, Lighting, Sound, Props, etc.)
- Discuss any script cuts, additions, or adjustments needed
- Align creative vision with all department heads
Planning and Scheduling
- Work with Stage Manager and Production Manager to create rehearsal schedule
- Plan completion timeline for staging, vocals, and choreography by Designer Run
- Confirm all production calendar dates
- Review and approve rehearsal space arrangements
Casting Phase
Pre-Audition Preparation
- Discuss ideal cast size with producers
- Determine if Young Artists will be cut or all included
- Decide on double-casting needs
- Identify particularly challenging roles requiring creative solutions
- Select appropriate sides for callbacks
- Prepare audition materials and character descriptions
Audition Process
- Confirm audition dates (3 weeks before first rehearsal)
- Confirm callback dates (2 weeks before first rehearsal)
- Attend all audition sessions
- Collaborate with Music Director and Choreographer on casting decisions
- Run callback sessions
- Make final casting decisions with creative team
- Participate in role offers process
Post-Casting
- Attend Launch Day — the community welcome event including the parent meeting (see Parent Meeting Outline for the parent-meeting portion’s agenda)
- Present unified vision with design team
- Communicate full production schedule to cast and families
Rehearsal Phase
First Week
- Lead parent meeting and design presentations
- Conduct table work with full cast
- Establish rehearsal room expectations and atmosphere
- Begin character development work
- Start initial blocking and staging
Ongoing Rehearsal Responsibilities
- Arrive prepared for each rehearsal session
- Follow rehearsal schedule for directing scenes and blocking
- Provide positive feedback, reminders, and encouragement
- Lead or coordinate warm-ups for cast
- Correct mistakes with high expectations for script execution
- Maintain collaborative working environment
Weekly Tasks
- Communicate regularly with Music Director and Choreographer
- Attend bi-weekly production meetings
- Update design and production teams on progress and changes
- Address any concerns or challenges that arise
- Track rehearsal progress toward Designer Run goals
Preparation for Designer Run
- Complete all staging by Designer Run date
- Ensure cast is prepared for full run-through
- Coordinate with Stage Manager on Show Bible development
- Prepare to answer designer questions after run
Designer Run
Preparation
- Confirm all staging is complete and ready
- Brief cast on expectations for Designer Run
- Review any last-minute staging adjustments
- Prepare notes and questions for post-run meeting
Designer Run Day
- Attend run with complete understanding of staging
- Take notes on how designs integrate with staging
- Be ready to answer questions from other designers
- Observe how all elements work together
Post-Designer Run
- Attend production meeting immediately following run
- Address questions and discrepancies with design team
- Make final adjustments before moving to performance space
- Confirm tech schedule and expectations
Paper Tech
Preparation
- Review Stage Manager’s Show Bible (first draft)
- Prepare specific lighting notes and requests
- Review all technical requirements in script
- Coordinate with Stage Manager on cue sequences
Paper Tech Session
- Attend paper tech with full production team
- Discuss lighting specifics with Lighting Designer
- Review sound cues and requirements
- Coordinate set movement and technical elements
- Ensure all departments understand technical vision
Dry Tech
Preparation
- Review tech schedule and expectations
- Prepare notes on transition facilitation
- Coordinate with Stage Manager on cue timing
Dry Tech Session
- Attend dry tech with entire design team
- Observe coordination of lights, sounds, and set moves
- Provide input on element manipulation for transitions
- Work out technical bugs before actors return
Tech Rehearsals
Daily Tech Responsibilities
- Guide integration of all production elements
- Work with Sound Designer on audio balance
- Work with Lighting Designer on visual storytelling
- Continue directing and noting cast through changes
- Ensure all design elements serve overall vision
Communication and Leadership
- Attend nightly production meetings
- Continue collaboration with production team
- Provide encouragement to cast during challenging tech process
- Make final adjustments to staging as needed
- Prepare to hand show over to Stage Manager
Final Tech Tasks
- Approve final lighting and sound levels
- Give final notes to cast and crew
- Confirm all elements are ready for performance
- Brief cast on performance expectations
Performance Phase
Opening Night
- Give opening night notes/encouragement to cast
- Attend opening night performance
- Celebrate with cast and crew
During Run
- Attend scheduled performances
- Take notes on performance quality and consistency
- Provide ongoing support and encouragement to cast
- Address any performance issues that arise
- Support special performances (sensory-friendly, etc.)
Post-Production
Immediate Post-Closing
- Participate in strike as needed
- Oversee return of borrowed equipment/materials
- Thank cast, crew, and production team
- Complete any required final paperwork
Evaluation and Documentation
- Reflect on production’s success and challenges
- Document notes for future reference and improvement
- Complete production evaluation forms
- Provide feedback to production team
- Submit final reports as required
Final Tasks
- Return any borrowed scripts or materials
- Archive important production documents
- Write thank you notes to key collaborators
- Submit final budget documentation if applicable
Ongoing Responsibilities (All Phases)
- Maintain thorough understanding of script and production needs
- Communicate regularly with Production Manager and Stage Manager
- Stay updated on current theater trends and techniques
- Honor budget constraints and collaborate on cost-effective solutions
- Uphold Encore’s educational mission and values in all interactions
- Model positive, professional behavior for young artists
- Support phone-free rehearsal environment (see Phone Free)
- Maintain collaborative, growth-oriented atmosphere
Remember: This checklist serves as a guide to ensure all essential director responsibilities are completed. Adapt timing and specific tasks based on your production’s unique needs while maintaining Encore’s commitment to artistic excellence and young artist development.
Related
Status: Working · Portal: Team · Last reviewed: 2026-05-11 · Owner: Rhett