Life in the Theatre (not the Mamet play)

What I learned from directing Antigone

• You have to delegate. 
• The importance of a great cast. It's not only about talent; it's about enthusiasm, risk-taking and kindness.
• When someone asks if there's anything they can do, they really mean it. Give them something to do!
• Trust. Trust that everything will work out. Trust your actors. Trust your instincts.
• Loving a play makes a huge difference.

A few years ago, I wrote up a "Bucket List of Plays I would like to Direct", and Sophocle's Antigone was at the top of the list. Done!

Why I Love Directing:
Directing allows me to connect with my creative side and rekindle my love of the theatre. It keeps me youthful and on my toes (there's a lot of jumping around and doing crazy voices!). It gives me a sense of accomplishment. It keeps me busy in a good way. It stimulates my mind and body. It excites me. It makes me laugh and cry (literally).

Downside of Directing:
Yes, sometimes it's tiring after a long day of "performing in front of a class"(I sometimes don't step outside until 9:30pm). Yes, sometimes I'd rather be home hanging out with Simon and Margot (interestingly enough, Margot goes to bed earlier and without fuss when it's only Simon at home and they get along à merveille!) . Yes, sometimes I wonder "What's the point? I don't even get paid for this! I don't even get a reduced teaching load for the countless hours I commit to this production!"

Advantages: 
I don't have to worry about financial or job issues.
I'm in the best boat: I have access to an ample supply of willing young adults who wish to act (who are involved for their pure enjoyment, not for school credits or money); I rehearse and perform in a rent-free beautiful auditorium; I don't have to worry about an audience coming to see the shows (parents and friends and students flock the auditorium) ; lastly,  I have a team of talented and dedicated colleagues who have faith in my abilities and believe in the importance of theatre.

A Theatrical Experience

It may sound silly and irresponsible that my exclusive  reason for going to NYC this weekend was to see the production Sleep No More by London's Punchdrunk theatre company, but I just had to experience it for myself. And what an INCREDIBLE experience it was!
Words cannot do it justice. You will need to talk/write/call me if you wish more details. Meanwhile, you can check this out:
about the theatre company:http://punchdrunk.com
about the show I saw: http://sleepnomorenyc.com

I went with Simon (who was very brave!) and we experienced two completely different plays. That is what is so awesome about this immersive theatre. No two experiences will be alike and it is impossible to see the play it its entity and in a linear way (i love that!)
As an audience member, you need to make decisions about where to go. A bit like life; you can only be present one moment at a time.
Curiosity, boldness, vitality (and good shoes!)  are all required to enjoy and partake in this highly atmospheric and physical theatre experience.

It made me fall in love with this art form again. How exciting theatre can be! It reminded me of why I loved theatre in the first place: for its daring, emotional, bold experience. Furthermore, how, during a performance it can grab you and swirl you on a personal journey, and when the lights come on at the end, you just want to discuss, express, decorticate your experience with others. Oh! How it brought excitement and youth to life!

To have sparkles in your eyes and not feel how tired your feet are after walking/running 2.5 hours during the production (plus another previous 6 hours exploring the city): that's the sign of something special.