What does an Assistant Director do?

An Assistant Director plays a crucial role in supporting the Director and ensuring the smooth operation of a production. They handle many behind-the-scenes tasks that contribute to the overall success of the project. An Assistant Director position gives you the opportunity to both learn about the production process generally and the work of a Director. After a while of assisting Directors, you could eventually work towards becoming a Director.

What are the main responsibilities of an Assistant Director?

Read and study the play, then discuss the concept and ideas with the Director
Attend production meetings
Communicate with the whole team, sometimes on behalf of the Director
Undertake administrative tasks such as scheduling
Offer casting assistance
Assist the Director, including taking notes and discussing the process
Run rehearsals such as run-throughs or speed line runs
Rehearse scenes if an Actor is absent
Offer creative assistance
If working on a touring production, you could potentially join the tour and maintain the show in various theatres
Assist during technical rehearsals
Help problem-solve

You can search for assistant directing opportunities from across the theatre industry here

What qualifications do I need to be an Assistant Director?

While you do not need a degree for this role, here are some useful subjects and courses that you can study to gain knowledge and experience.

Directing
Producing
Creative Arts
Theatre Management
Theatre Studies
Creative Management
Acting

Search all training opportunities to help you get into theatre here

Here are some subjects that you can study at school which will teach you some useful skills on your journey to becoming an Assistant Director:

Drama/Theatre Studies
English
Psychology
History

What skills do I need to be an Assistant Director?

Experience in directing and producing
Ability to work under pressure
Leadership and people skills
Theatre knowledge
Risk-taking
Excellent communication skills
Management skills
Creativity
Organisation skills
Adaptability
Attention to detail
Strong maths ability for budgets and logistics

Find more theatre careers advice here

What does a career in Assistant Directing look like?

An Assistant Director needs to be prepared to undertake a wide range of roles in order to assist the Director and ensure the smooth running of a production. You will take notes during rehearsals and the shows, to share and discuss with the Director. Whilst there is not a one-way path to become an Assistant Director, having previous experience of producing, directing, acting and creating new work is ideal.

How much does an Assistant Director earn?

Pay can vary and can be offered as a freelance fee per production, or occasionally based in-venue or with a company. Learn more about freelancing with our blog 'How to be a freelancer in theatre.'

For more information on a Director's fee, read our What does a Director do? blog.

The above is a guide. Pay, salary or fee can vary depending on the theatre or company, as well as your personal experience. National institutions or commercial productions can pay in excess of the above, with profit-share or community theatre paying less.

To learn more about what a Director does, watch this interview with Director Adam Penford

You can find theatre jobs via The Stage Jobs here