Director Manifesto
Hello all,
By now, most of you know me on a personal level; but for those who don’t, I am this years current Director in the Musical Theatre Society. This year, I have begun the journey of a new course, Theatre Arts (previously Business Management). This his been a massive change for me but has proven to be one of the best things I have ever done. It is teaching me a lot, in a very small space of time, which has already proved useful in our current sessions. Performing is, and always has been, my biggest passion (as I’m sure many of you have recognised), for instance: I have spent many weeks learning lines, researching characters and getting more confident with choreography in many shows – my most prominent one being a school production of Grease. Not only was this to make sure that I was performing to the best of my ability, but it was also to give a good outlook on those in charge of the creative process, as it is important to remember just how much time can be spent producing and creating a show!
This year, I set out to give a new creative perspective to how the sessions for showcase, and the musicals would be run. For the most part, I believe I have done this to the best of my capability, whilst learning a few things along the way.
Furthermore, I also recently started a new job at PQA Derby, which gives me a new opportunity to understand how to lead creative arts sessions, and I thoroughly believe that this will mature me as a director.
Why I believe I am a strong candidate for this role
First and foremost, it is my current role. And, though it has not been an easy year, it has been incredible, and I believe that I have overseen the creation of some very spectacular performances. This year has taught me the importance of listening to others, forming a team of creatives that can be trusted to work hard, and making the performance space a safe and encouraging environment.
Aside from my current role within the Musical Theatre Society, I have always found ways to be involved in the creation or presentation of shows. During my time at school/college, I was directly involved in several shows, competitions, and other forms of presentations in front of an audience. This has allowed me to gain a large amount of experience in understanding the way that all kinds of person work within a theatre, and during the creative process. I believe I have used this experience as best as I can so far this year, despite some bumps along the way.
As said in my previous manifesto, I strongly believe that I am a very open-minded person, who cares about everyone’s voice. This has allowed me to become a trusted member of committee and has allowed me to lead the sessions in a productive and efficient way (for the most part). Furthermore, my ability to use my confidence in social situations meant that early sessions were productive, although everyone was unfamiliar with each other. This has also meant that I have been able to vocalise my own thoughts with the knowledge that members are likely going to listen to what I have to say, and what directions I am giving. It additionally means that members can be confident in disagreeing with me and making their own suggestions, knowing that they won’t be brushed aside, or ignored.
Moreover, it has also been an incredible way for me to learn about other cultures, and identities of others, and has made me far more aware of ways to be inclusive along the way. Though this is still something I am learning every day, I feel confident that I can make everyone feel included and respected, no matter their identity. Which I believe to be one of, if not THE, most important parts of any society.
If re-elected, I intend to:
- Communicate more clearly with members, committee, and creatives, and release a clear and concise schedule for showcases and shows. This was lacked this year, and I have learnt that having everyone know exactly where we should be at, and when, is of utmost importance.
- Make it clear to all members where they can get help on all aspects of a show (choreography, directions, and vocals). This will, hopefully, help people feel more confident and comfortable with reaching out for help, and remove any guilt felt by asking for help from the creative team in their free time.
- Continue to be open to trying new ways for running sessions, creating scenes and how to be more inclusive. – it is important to make everyone feel their voice is being heard, and I intend to do everything I can to ensure that all members know that they are important.
- Carefully check dates and time spans for any shows or showcases, to ensure that we have enough time to get through all the material in a stress-free and efficient way – this is something that has been learnt from this year and will not be overlooked again!
- Check up on members well-being, and make sure to point them in the right direction to keep themselves safe, and well. Not only are members, members, but they are also my friends and family, and I will continue to do everything that I can to help anyone who needs it.
- Ensure that the sessions have a fun feel to them, and to ensure that they aren’t becoming a chore, or like a lecture. This should be a place for everyone to express themselves freely, and have fun as a hobby, or as a career path.
Thank you for taking the time to read my manifesto, and feel free to contact me for any questions or elaborations on any points made by using Facebook Messenger