Notes On Directing Frank Hauser Pdf 97

Notes On Directing: A Book Review

Notes On Directing is a book by Frank Hauser and Russell Reich that offers 130 lessons in leadership from the director's chair. The book is based on Hauser's 50 years of experience as a theatre director in England and his collaboration with Reich, a writer and director from New York. The book is a concise and practical guide for aspiring and experienced directors, as well as actors, writers, students, and teachers of theatre and film.

The book covers various aspects of directing, such as casting, rehearsing, staging, communicating, collaborating, and creating. Each lesson is presented as a short and clear statement, followed by an explanation or an example. Some of the lessons are:

\"The script is not the play.\"

\"Don't direct the play. Direct the actors.\"

\"Don't tell them what to do. Tell them what to pursue.\"

\"Don't give line readings.\"

\"Don't say 'no'.\"

\"Don't be boring.\"

The book also includes four appendices, an original acting exercise, a recommended reading list, and an index. The book is written in a conversational and witty tone, with anecdotes and insights from Hauser's career. The book is not a comprehensive manual on directing, but rather a collection of tips and principles that can inspire and challenge directors to improve their craft.

Notes On Directing is a classic guidebook that has been praised by critics and professionals alike. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the art of directing or the theatre in general. The book is available in print and digital formats from various sources.

One of the strengths of Notes On Directing is that it does not impose a single method or style of directing, but rather encourages directors to find their own voice and vision. The book acknowledges that directing is a complex and creative process that involves intuition, imagination, and experimentation. The book also recognizes that directing is a collaborative and interpersonal activity that requires respect, trust, and communication with the actors and the production team.

Another strength of Notes On Directing is that it is applicable to both theatre and film directing, as well as other forms of storytelling and leadership. The book draws on examples from various genres and mediums, such as Shakespeare, Chekhov, Beckett, Hitchcock, Spielberg, and Woody Allen. The book also offers advice on how to adapt to different situations and challenges, such as working with limited resources, dealing with difficult personalities, or coping with failure.

Notes On Directing is a book that can be read and reread many times, as each lesson can offer new insights and perspectives depending on the context and experience of the reader. The book is also a book that can be shared and discussed with others, as each lesson can spark debate and dialogue among directors and theatre lovers. Notes On Directing is a book that can inspire and motivate directors to pursue their passion and craft with confidence and joy. aa16f39245