Now Enrolling for June 23rd start date!

$100 off if you register before June 7th!

About the Instructor

Andrew Roblyer, Founder & Archivist
(click the image above to read Andrew’s bio)

“Andrew created a space for us all to feel, create, and above all, be safe and respected always. And the work that came out of that… magic. People over projects creates electric work. Love before harshness builds an unbreakable ensemble.” - Jeana Magallon, Houston-based actress

Overall Structure:

• Duration: 6 weeks

• Format: 1 weekly Zoom session (~90 minutes), plus homework

• Major Project: Rehearse and direct a 10-minute play or scene with actors local to you, recording rehearsals for feedback

WEEK 1: FACILITATION – Building the Room

Zoom Topics:

• What is facilitation in directing? (The director as host and catalyst)

• Setting a creative, brave, and structured space

• Psychological safety basics (especially with students)

• First rehearsals: setting norms and expectations

• Facilitation tools: agreements, icebreakers, opening/closing rituals

Homework:

• Host a first gathering or table read; submit video excerpt

• Short reflection prompt (100-200 words)

WEEK 2: LEADERSHIP – Vision, Trust, and Authority

Zoom Topics:

• The director as vision-holder, not vision-boss

• Styles of leadership: directive, participative, coaching

• Leading when you’re still learning (embracing vulnerability)

• Building trust without abdicating responsibility

• Setting clear goals for your scene/play

Homework:

• Submit a short "vision sketch" for their project (1 page or less)

• Conduct a second rehearsal focused on leadership clarity

• Submit video excerpt

• Short reflection prompt (100-200 words)

WEEK 3: ARTISTIC INSIGHT & TASTE – Making Meaning

Zoom Topics:

• Understanding the heart of your story (theme, tone, rhythm)

• Taste development: making choices, not just following instinct

• Text analysis 101: what’s happening, what's needed, what’s possible

• Tools: beat breakdowns, emotional mapping, temperature reading scenes

Homework:

• Personal taste analysis worksheet

• Rehearse your project; submit video excerpt

• Short reflection prompt (100-200 words)

WEEK 4: MANAGEMENT – Keeping the Machine Running

Zoom Topics:

• Managing time, energy, and logistics (yours and your actors’)

• Rehearsal planning: bite-size goals, momentum maintenance

• Crisis management: what to do when rehearsals go sideways

• Managing expectations and creating closure for short processes

Homework:

• Create and share a mini rehearsal plan for a working rehearsal

• Implement it during their next rehearsal; submit video excerpt

• Short reflection prompt (100-200 words)

WEEK 5: EDUCATION & MENTORSHIP – Growing Your Team

Zoom Topics:

• Directors as teachers and mentors, especially with students

• Teaching skills vs. nurturing autonomy

• Giving empowering feedback

• Setting actors up for ownership and lifelong skills

Homework:

• Run a rehearsal focused on teaching or mentoring moments rather than fixing scenes

• Submit a final recorded rehearsal or excerpt

• Short reflection prompt (100-200 words)

WEEK 6: WATCH PARTY!! - Celebrate your success!

Zoom Topics:

• Final project sharing

• Group feedback and “biggest growth moment” reflection

• Certificates of completion and feedback surveys

Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to identify actionable steps to help them:

• Understand the multidimensional role of the director through FLAME

• Build creative environments that encourage risk-taking and learning

• Lead with clarity and compassion

• Make sharper, more intentional artistic choices

• Manage limited time and resources effectively

• Serve as educators and mentors in the rehearsal room, not just "bosses"