What does an Associate Director do?

An Associate Director is typically a member of the production team who works closely with the Director to support and assist in various aspects of the production process. The role will require you to take over when the Director is absent, or on touring productions.

What are the main responsibilities of an Associate Director?

Assisting the Director
Rehearsal facilitation
Creative input
Administrative tasks
Production support
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
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 associate directing opportunities from across the theatre industry here

What qualifications do I need to be an Associate Director?

While there are no specific qualifications needed to be an Associate Director, these courses could be beneficial:

Directing
Acting
Theatre Studies
Theatre Management
English Literature

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

Drama/Theatre Studies
English
Psychology
History

Find training opportunities in directing offered across the theatre industry here

What skills do I need to be an Associate Director?

If you’re thinking of becoming an Associate Director, these can be the desirable skills to be an ideal candidate:

Creativity
Leadership
Collaboration
Communication
Theatre knowledge
Technical knowledge
Literature skills
Researching skills
Analytical thinking
Problem-solving
Adaptability
Troubleshooting
Time management
Organisation

What does a career as an Associate Director look like?

As an Associate Director, your role adapts to the preferences of the Director that you're supporting. This could mean leading rehearsals, aiding in creative brainstorming, or taking charge of particular scenes or characters. Your input and expertise contribute to the production, especially in areas where the Director needs assistance or lacks time. While your insights are valuable, the Director ultimately makes the final decisions. If you are working on a touring production or a long-running show, you will often make sure the show keeps the Director’s vision throughout.

How much can I earn?

Associate Directors are often freelancers, so you can negotiate your fee with the company or venue. This would usually be based on the venue’s budget, the duration of the show, the size of the audience and the ticket prices. The fee may vary depending on your level of experience. 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.

Watch this interview with Steven Kavuma to learn more

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