This is a practical introduction to directing for stage.
Directing is where ideas become action.
The Director’s Toolkit is a hands-on, ten-week course designed to give you the core skills every stage director needs – clearly, quickly, and without unnecessary theory.
If you’ve ever wanted to direct but didn’t know where to start, this is the starting point.
What you’ll learn
Over ten weeks, you’ll build a working toolkit you can actually use in a rehearsal room:
- How to break down a script with clarity and purpose
- Blocking that serves the story (not just movement for movement’s sake)
- How to communicate effectively with actors
- Running a rehearsal room with confidence and structure
- Shaping a scene from first read-through to performance
This is practical. You’ll be on your feet, making decisions, and directing from week one.
Who it’s for
- Actors ready to step into directing
- Writers who want to see their work realised on stage
- Theatre-makers looking to broaden their skillset
- Complete beginners (in directing) with a strong interest in storytelling
No prior directing experience is required.
How it works
Duration: 10 weeks
Format: Weekly 2-hour sessions
Approach: Practical, structured, and supportive
You won’t just talk about directing – you’ll do it.
Final outcome
By the end of the course, you’ll direct a short scene, applying everything you’ve learned.
You’ll receive clear, constructive feedback from your tutor and peers – so you leave knowing what works and what to develop next.
Why train at MAD?
Merseyside Academy of Drama is built around one principle: people learn by doing.
We don’t overcomplicate things. We create a space where you can try, fail, improve, and grow – quickly.
Book A Place
Select a course below. A 20% deposit is required to secure your booking, with the remaining 80% payable in two instalments: 40% a week before classes start and 40% in week 4.
Our Core Acting Pathway
