Directing Actors

In just eight weeks, an accomplished director will give you the tools to transform a script into a roadmap that takes your vision from ideas to final cut. In this introductory level self-paced course, you'll explore and experiment with how to approach your collaboration with actors from auditions to working on set.

This is a self-paced course. Self-paced courses allow you to watch pre-recorded lectures at your own pace, while working on deadlines to get individualized feedback on your work.

Along the way you will:

• learn how to look at a script as a director and conduct a scene analysis.
• be able to create a world for your characters.
• understand the actors’ process.
• learn techniques to sharpen your communication with actors.
• develop an approach for casting, rehearsing and meeting with actors.
• learn how to effectively block a scene.
• understand how to work with intimacy coordinators and stunt coordinators.
• understand the on-set process and best practices as a director.
• prepare to shoot your project by creating a production binder.
• create a Director’s Journal and preparation checklist.

This course will include four optional group office hours led by a Sundance Advisor. The advisor will guide you through:

• looking at a scene and determining beat shifts.
• a practice session on blocking.
• running a simulated audition.

All exercises will be explained and moderated by the advisor who is a working director. Each office hour session will also include time for questions and discussion with your peers. You may attend these sessions live online or choose to watch the recordings.

You will submit your work to a Sundance Advisor for written feedback at two points throughout the 8-week course. For an additional fee, you may elect to meet with your advisor for a 60-minute one-on-one session during the course term.

This course is ideal for:

• directors with a first project they plan to direct.
• directors who have directed before, but want to get a better understanding of the basics and best practices for working with actors.

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available and are considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Those who apply earlier will have a greater chance of getting support. To apply for a scholarship, please complete the registration form and follow the instructions on the left side to fill out a scholarship application.

Sundance Collab provides accommodations and support services to participants with disabilities. Accommodations and services are designed to meet the needs of each participant. Please email us at accessibility@sundance.org to arrange for services.