Welcome to the Directors Guild
The Directors Guild Trust and the Directors Guild of Great Britain work together to promote and support directing across all media: film, television, theatre, radio, opera, commercials, music videos, corporate film, multimedia and new technology. The Guild hosts events and training, produces and sponsors publications, has a respected public voice on arts and media policy and is a forum for members to meet and share experience and skills. MORE
We welcome professional directors in all media, students of directing and associated studies, educational establishments teaching directing in theatre, film and television, corporate members who would like access to our facilities and everyone interested in the art and craft of directing. JOIN
Announcements
VOICEWORK FOR DIRECTORS
One-day Workshop - Sunday 15th August 2010 (Shaw Theatre, London)
Voice coach and teacher Terry Besson (Awaydays, Nickelodeon, Band of Brothers, Stones in his Pocket) will be giving a rare insight into the tips, tricks and techniques to create and sustain great vocal performances both on and off mic, talking about accents, dialects and vocal transformations, directors’ resources and generally filling in the blanks in this sometimes-neglected area of a director’s knowledge and craft.
Places are limited.
For more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
ADVANCED TOOLS OF DIRECTING ACTORS - A WEEKEND MASTERCLASS WITH SIMON PHILLIPS
Friday 2nd July 2010 7pm to 9pm, Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th July 10am to 5pm
Shaw Theatre London NW1
In January the Guild staged an introduction to Advanced Tools of Directing. The workshop sold out immediately and garnered high praise from participants. Simon Phillips’ ground-breaking techniques give directors their own unique methodology, neither dependant on theories of writing nor acting, but relating specifically to the director’s craft. He brings new insight and clarity to the complex task of directing film - and though Simon’s methods are targeted at film for now, they are equally applicable to the theatre.
The Guild is now delighted to promote a weekend master-class exploring the Tools of Directing Actors in detail.
Because of the one-to-one nature of Simon’s work, places are very limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
The Guild is able to offer a limited number of heavily discounted placements
Find more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
INTRO TO 3D EVENING WITH DECODE
SEMINAR Thursday 24th June 2010 6.30pm for 7pm til 9pm
Phoenix Artists Club, 1 Phoenix St, London WC2H 0DT
An informal introduction to shooting in 3D presented by the Guild and Decode. Guest speakers will give an introduction to the joys and pitfalls of shooting 3D, and Decode will demonstrate a full RED 3D kit.
All welcome, tickets £6, including a glass of wine.
The Phoenix Artists' Club entrance is in Phoenix Street, off Charing Cross Road.
Nearest tube station: Tottenham Court Road. More information HERE.
Doors open 6.30pm and the event runs from 7pm to 9pm.
Reserve a place - book online HERE
DVD OF THE INAUGURAL DG PETER BROOK LECTURE AVAILABLE SOON
Given by Guild President Peter Brook , hosted by Sir Richard Eyre
at the Barbican, London, Saturday 6th February 2010
STORIES & TREATMENT
Workshop - Saturday 8th May 2010 (London)
How do you work up a story? What should be in a treatment? Are there really only nine different story structures?
The Guild welcome distinguished playwright and screenwriter Stephen Jeffreys, who will be giving an in-depth analysis of story and treatment, with a practical opportunity to examine and discuss treatments brought by workshop participants. Maximum 25 participants.
For more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
PETER CHEESEMAN - born 27 January 1932; died 27 April 2010
Peter Cheeseman, the founder of the New Vic Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent and pioneer of theatre-in-the-round and ensemble theatre in the UK has died aged 78. A dedicated supporter of new writing and new talent, Peter helped shape the careers of many of the finest artists working in theatre and film today.
Theresa Heskins, the current artistic director of the New Vic, says of the theatre's work, "both in our in-the-round auditorium and throughout the broader community, will be a lasting tribute to Peter's vision of a theatre that is accessible, inclusive and democratic".
Robin Thornber writes about Peter Cheeseman
- The Guardian 29th April 2010 - READ MORE HERE
AN ACCOUNT OF THE INAUGURAL PETER BROOK LECTURE
By Guild member Richard Shannon
If you missed Peter Brook's stunning lecture at the Barbican Pit on 6th February, here is a very personal account by one of the people who helped make it happen.
"It was a summer’s afternoon in 2008. Peter Brook had just opened Fragments at the Young Vic. I had arranged to meet Peter over tea to discuss the notion of a Peter Brook Lecture..."
READ MORE HERE
CASTING & AUDITIONING ACTORS
Workshop - Sunday 25th April 2010 (London)
The Guild and FuseLondon are delighted to announce a joint one-day workshop designed to help directors and actors get the most from the audition process across theatre, film and TV. Three experienced casting directors will host Q&As and oversee auditions by participating directors in each genre, using professional actors. Tickets are limited and there are a limited number of observer places.
GUEST CASTING DIRECTORS:
Catherine Willis- TV: (‘Waking the Dead’, ‘Casualty’, ‘Little Miss Jocelyn’, ‘Coming Up’, ‘Dead Set’, ‘FM’ , 'Criminal Justice'. and more);
Manuel Puro- FILM: (‘The Scorpion King 2’, ‘Land Girls’ ‘When Saturday Comes’, ‘Thick As Thieves’, ‘Dead Man Running’ and more);
Ginny Schiller- THEATRE: (Soho Theatre, Chichester Festival Theatre, RSC, Regent’s Park, ETT, Rose Theatre, Kingston, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, Oxford Playhouse, Bristol Old Vic, Birmingham Rep, Young Vic, Theatre Clwyd - also casts TV, Film and Radio. (TO BE CONFIRMED)
Find more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
CREATING VIOLENCE FOR STAGE AND SCREEN
Workshop - Sunday 21st March 2010 (London)
What makes a great fight and how do you choreograph it? How do you film it? How do you find a fight director – and how do you work with them? What’s an “acceptable” level of violence – and what isn’t? Where do you hire weapons - or an armourer? What’s the greatest movie fight EVER?
Hosted by fight director and British Academy of Fencing member Andy Wilkinson and Guild Chair Ivor Benjamin, this one-day workshop at the Shaw Theatre, London, is a broad introduction for directors at all levels to the challenges of staging violence for film, television and theatre. The day will include: developing action from the script, dramatic and moral challenges, the differences between stage and screen, working with fight directors, organising rehearsals, legal, insurance and health & safety issues and sourcing weapons. We will be showing examples of work, and discussing individual examples.
Find more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
GIANNI MASSARO (Obituary)
The World Cinema Alliance (www.cinema-alliance.org) has announced the death of founder member Gianni Massaro in Rome, 16th February 2010. Massaro held an enduring love and passion for cinema and was an ardent defender of creativity of the authors of films and a stern opponent of censorship. He had been President of Eurimages, Président du Conseil Supérieur Italien des Communications, President of the National Union of Producers (ANICA) as well as being an expert advisor to the European Commission, the Council of Europe and to the OMPI. His death is a great loss to the world of European cinema.
The Directors Guild of Great Britain and the Directors Guild Trust join other associations in sending his family and friends our deepest condolances. The funeral will take place in Rome,18th Febuary 2010.
THE DIRECTORS GUILD OF GREAT BRITAIN AND THE DIRECTORS GUILD TRUST PRESENT
THE INAUGURAL PETER BROOK LECTURE, GIVEN BY PETER BROOK
Saturday 6th February 2010 at the Barbican Pit Theatre, London
Honorary President of the Director’s Guild Peter Brook CH, CBE gave the Guild’s inaugural lecture named in his honour on 6 February at the Barbican Pit. One of the world’s great directors, Brook’s work over the past fifty years has irrevocably influenced the landscape of theatre, and has inspired new generations of theatre practitioners.
Sir Richard Eyre chaired the post lecture discussion with an audience of fellow practitioners and guests from the industry and arts including Mike Leigh, Sir Trevor Nunn, Dame Liz Forgan of Arts Council England, Rosemary Squire of Ambassador Theatre Group, Janet Suzman, Alan Rickman and Frances de la Tour. Eyre said “Peter has inspired at least three generations of directors and continues to do so. This event is a wonderful platform for the Directors Guild to establish their annual lecture, named in Peter’s honour.”
“Peter has been the honorary president of the Guild for over twenty years, so when he gave permission for us to stage a lecture in his name, and said he wanted to give the inaugural lecture himself, we were thrilled beyond measure”, said Guild Chair Ivor Benjamin. “This is a great honour for the Guild and a significant opportunity to promote and celebrate the craft of the director.”
The Peter Brook Lecture will become an annual event, giving leading directors from across disciplines a platform to address their craft, culture and industry. This year’s event will be held at the Barbican – where Brook is staging his new play 11 and 12, as part of BITE 10.
For press information about the Lecture, please contact Kate Morley at Blueprint PR - 07970 465 648
ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND - PUBLIC CONSULTATION
A.C.E. have announced a new, wide ranging consultation “Achieving great art for everyone” running until 14 April 2010. They are canvassing public opinion on the challenges and opportunities for the arts in England and a future direction for policy ad finding. This is an important exercise for ACE and for the arts community; members’ contributions are welcome. The consultation can be found HERE.
THE UK PREMIERE OF ADVANCED TOOLS OF DIRECTING - BY SIMON PHILLIPS
Workshop - Saturday 30th January 2010 (London)
A one-day seminar at the Shaw Theatre, London, premiering a radical new approach to directing. Simon Phillips is a Direction Coach for feature film directors and script development. Tools of Directing has been presented in the USA and Europe, and the Guild is very proud to be the first to showcase Simon’s methods here in the UK. Find more information HERE.
UK FILM COUNCIL - PUBLIC CONSULTATION 2009
The UK Film Council has launched a three month public consultation - UK Film: Digital innovation and creative excellence - into the most significant revision of its activities since it was created in 2000. The Council’s priorities are to protect current funding, to support filmmakers, to safeguard film culture and to promote digital innovation. It also aims to create two new funds, a £15m Film Production Fund which is focused on the pursuit of creative excellence and places a distinct emphasis on first- and second-time filmmakers, and a new £5m Innovation Fund, tasked with helping UK film companies across the value chain develop new business models for the digital age. The council will also be cutting their overheads by 20% in order to push as much money as possible into front-line film activity.
INTRODUCTION TO MEISNER TECHNIQUE FOR DIRECTORS - WITH STEPHEN BAYLY
Workshop - Saturday 21st November (London)
A one-day introduction to the methods of Sanford Meisner, as used by actor/director Sidney Pollack, writer/director David Mamet etc, to draw emotionally rich performances from their actors, whether on stage or screen. Find more information HERE.
JOHN-JACKSON ALMOND APPOINTED ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF SHAW THEATRE, LONDON
The Shaw Theatre is proud to announce, that under the new management of the Novotel London St Pancras, Directors Guild member John-Jackson Almond has been appointed as the new Artistic Director.
GUILD MEMBER IN FAKE DISMEMBERMENT SHOCK POLICE PROBE HORROR
Member Geoff Searle found himself in big trouble with the local police when he took a break from filming a short horror film in woods near Stevenage and a local lad found a hidden (fake) corpse. Read the full story here HERE. (19/09/09)
AN INTRODUCTION TO INDIAN THEATRE
Find journalist Priyal Sanghavi's background to Indian modern theatre under Articles or link directly HERE. (06/09/09)
EQUITY - PROGRAMME OF ONE DAY WORKSHOPS FOR MEMBERS
Equity are running a series of training days in Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, London and Newcastle on the following subjects: Copyright for Creatives, Freelance Survival Guide, Networking via the Web, Build your own Website. The courses are subsidised - the cost to participants is £25 per workshop. Details can be found HERE. (02/09/09)
DIRECT ACCESS UPDATE
Trailers are now online for two of the films with Direct Access candidate placements; Miranda Bowen observed Joe Johnston on The Wolfman, Sarah Grohnert was placed on Jon Amiel's Creation.
The Wolfman trailer is HERE
Creation trailer is HERE
Creation will open the Toronto Film Festival on 10th September 2010.
BAFTA will hold a special preview screening and Q&A on 13th September 2010.
(01/09/2009)
BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE & UK FILM COUNCIL TO MERGE?
Proposals to merge two of the UK’s flagship film bodies were put to the DCMS on 20th August. Plans for a single body to support film could benefit both the filmgoing public and the industry, said Film Minister Siôn Simon. The full DCMS statement can be read HERE.
Writers' Guild General Secretary, Bernie Corbett criticises the proposal HERE. (24/08/2009)
ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND'S THEATRE ASSESSMENT 2009
In 2008 Arts Council England (ACE) embarked on a widespread public assessment gather an up-to-date picture of theatre in England. In particular, they looked to identify changes that had occurred in the theatre sector and its environment since the Theatre Review of 2001 and the additional £25 million that ACE invested in theatre organisations from 2003 onwards. The Guild contributed to the assessment.
The findings have now been published as ACE's Theatre Assessment 2009, which identifies several emerging themes for ACE's attention including risk and innovation, talent development, diversity and touring. The Assessment can be read HERE. (22/08/2009)
CODE FOR THE PROTECTION OF COPYRIGHT MATERIAL
The Alliance for the Protection of Copyright (APC) has published a newly updated Code of Practice to protect those involved in both the submission and receipt of proposals for film, television and radio.
The code can be found in PDF format HERE. (21/08/2009)
DIRECT ACCESS UPDATE
Direct Access candidate, Celia Galan has begun her placement observing Director Louis Leterrier (The Incredible Hulk) on his remake of Clash of the Titans (Warner Brothers & Legendary Pictures) starring Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes. Celia will observe Louis at work during the shoot and right through to post-production, gaining that coveted insight into the workings of high level feature film making, thereby giving her the tools to better helm her own feature.
If you would like more information on the scheme, or to make a donation to the DGT to keep this valuable scheme running ensuring another round of emerging directors can benefit from this unique training, please contact the Guild. (04/08/2009)
NICOLAS ROEG IS NEW TRUST PATRON
The Guild is delighted to announce that veteran director and cinematographer Nicolas Roeg joins Sir Alan Parker as a patron of the Directors Guild Trust. (30/07/2009)
DIRECT ACCESS NEWS
Direct Access Candidate Celia Galan is confirmed to start observing a feature film director in the latest placement of the scheme; more details to follow.
Celia's placement marks the last in this round of the Direct Access Director Training Scheme - run by the Directors Guild Trust, in association with Skillset and Film4. The Scheme has seen a string of successful placements; Miranda Bowen observed Joe Johnston on The Wolfman, Sarah Grohnert was placed on Jon Amiel's Creation and Yann Demange is currently being mentored by Adrian Shergold. The first round of this hugely successful apprenticeship style observer scheme is now drawing to a close, and the Directors Guild Trust is currently seeking new funding in order to launch the next round.
IAN EMES: IT WAS A THURSDAY NIGHT
June @ The Horse Hospital
Unseen Pink Floyd 'Dark Side of the Moon' animation and artwork exhibited.
Art/Music collective STOMPER present a one night event, Ian Emes: It Was A Thursday Night, showcasing the work of filmmaker and DGGB member Ian Emes. This is a rare opportunity to view the works of Ian Emes, one of the foremost British animators of our time. Ian Emes is a pioneer in the visualisation of music and his internationally renowned work helped usher in the era of the music video.
More info: http://www.stomper.org.uk/ianemes.html
GENDER EQUALITY FORUM - NATIONAL THEATRE 16th JUNE 2009
Sphinx Theatre Company is convening a forum entitled VAMPS, VIXENS AND FEMINISTS - The Elephant in the Room, examining the issues around women's employment in theatre, film, radio and television. The conference is supported by the Directors Guild, the Writers' Guild, Arts Council England, Women in Film and Television and Equity. Speakers already confirmed are: Kate Buffery, Katherine Rake, Beatrix Campbell, Tanika Gupta, Tracy Brahin and David Edgar.
The conference will take place in the Olivier Theatre at the National Theatre on 16th June 2009 from 10 am to 1.30 pm. Tickets are free but places are limited - to receive an e-invitation please email
mailto:info@sphinxtheatre.co.uk?subject=Vamps,%20Vixens%20and%20Feminists with the subject line "Vamps, Vixens and Feminists" including your name, contact details and, if applicable, the professional body to which you belong before Friday 5th of June. Alternatively, please ring Sphinx theatre on 020 7401 9994.
For details in a printable PDF click here. Further news and information at: http://www.sphinxtheatre.co.uk/
SIMON CHANNING WILLIAMS Please click here to read Jack Gold's personal tribute to producer Simon Channing Williams, who died on 20th April 2008. (30/05/09)
SCI-FI LONDON FILM LAB and DIRECTORS GUILD OF GREAT BRITAIN PRESENTS
“THE PROBLEM OF SCI-FI / FANTASY FILMMAKING” Money, money, and of course, money – this is often the main reason why many Directors tend to stay away from sci-fi and fantasy film projects. But do sci-fi movies need mega-budgets? And how do you pitch the idea for a sci-fi film without making it sound expensive? This panel discussion will talk to directors with genre filmmaking experience and try to extract the pearls of wisdom and the magic wand that will get your film off the launch pad, looking at casting, crewing, creative and post production challenges you may be faced with.
Guests include:
MARC CARO (Delicatessen, Dante 01)
RICHARD JOBSON (A Woman in Winter, The Purifiers)
CORY MCABEE (American Astronaut, Stingray Sam)
GERALD MCMORROW (Thespian X, Franklyn)
Moderated by Alex Fitch.
SAT 2nd MAY 4.15 PM / £4 DGGB Members / £6 Non-members
Booking Online: APOLLO CINEMAS Piccadilly Circus or ring 020 7451 9944
'GETTING PERFORMANCES FROM ACTORS' WITH HERBERT WISE '
FULLY BOOKED - Thursday 30th April 2009
The Directors Guild Trust is honoured to present this highly practical one day workshop designed to de-mystify the process of directing, demonstrating ways of getting to the heart of a good performance. Booking: call Vanessa 0207 580 9131. Please click here for more information. (23/03/09)
OSCAR 2009 CONGRATULATIONS from the Guild to Danny Boyle (Best Director), James Marsh (Best Documentary Feature), Kate Winslet (Best Actress), Christian Colson (Best Film), Anthony Dod Mantle (Best Cinematography), Chris Dickens (Best Film Editing) and all the British Oscar winners this year - a bumper crop for UK Film.
MOBILE TV BOOST FROM EUROPE The European Commission has published recommendations to boost mobile TV across Europe. Brussels made clear that mobile operators as well as broadcasters should be able to compete on a level playing field to develop new TV services with the potential of spreading EU-wide services, products and standards far beyond European borders, as with the successful GSM standard for mobile telephony. European digital industry lobbies attacked the Commission for pursuing indirect tax increases for mobile handsets, and, by favouring EU industry, the move could increase prices for consumers and hamper the spread of new mobile TV services.
More here. (11/12/2008)
JOAN LITTLEWOOD TRIBUTE AT BFI - ON STAGE AND SCREEN 6 October 2008 To mark the 50th anniversary of Joan Littlewood's groundbreaking 'A Taste of Honey', the BFI pays tribute to one of Britain's greatest theatre directors and late DGGB member. On Monday 6th October you can attend a celebration of her life and work on both stage and screen, mixing reminiscences from her friends and colleagues with rare footage. The same evening there is a screening of 'Sparrows Can't Sing', Littlewood's only feature vividly portraying East End life. More info (03/10/2008)
ROEG ATRIVERSIDE – A RETROSPECTIVE 12-14 September 2008 London Film Academy & Riverside Studios present a three-day film retrospective introduced by legendary director and long time DGGB member Nicolas Roeg, celebrating his extraordinary work and featuring contributions from cultural commentators and collaborators. More information and full programme
UK UK
BFI YouTube CHANNEL: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BFI NATIONAL ARCHIVE The BFI has launched its official channel on YouTube where people can watch a collection of 150 archive films that date back as far as 1896, completely for free: Go to BFI YouTube Channel. The BFI is digitising as much as possible so that it can be more widely seen by new audiences. (21/07/2008)
MANIFESTO FOR CHILDREN'S ARTS: 21 July 2008 (London) This ACA conference to launch the Action for Children's Arts marks the beginning of a national campaign and is aimed at anyone with a professional or personal interest in the arts for children aged 0-12. Venue: Unicorn Theatre, London. Date: 21 July 2008, 10.00am - 4.30pm. Tickets from the Unicorn Theatre. Further information (08/07/2008)
DIRECTORSUK 12 June 2008 The Directors & Producers Rights Society (DPRS) has relaunched as Directors UK. It will continue to operate as a collecting society and will now actively campaign for better pay and working conditions for British television and film directors. The DPRS was founded by the Directors Guild in 1987. DGGB Chairman Ivor Benjamin says: “The Guild applauds the creation of Directors UK and supports them wholeheartedly in their efforts to provide a single voice for those British directors working in television and film. Creative and economic rights are the most important bargaining chip that directors possess.” Please click here to read more (12/06/2008 )
BRIGHTON FESTIVAL 2008, A SELECTIVE MEMORY - by Guild member Faynia Williams and Richard Crane: "A white horse stands silent and dangerously huge in a crowded basement, occasionally turning its long face to look at us looking at him then turning back again to watch the wall. This is the living backcloth to Fevered Sleep’s An Infinite Line, specially commissioned for the Brighton Festival 2008, and in one image sums up the incongruity and relaxed power of the indefinable arena for all the arts that this extraordinary Festival has become...” Click here to read the complete article. (11/06/2008)
DIRECT ACCESS NEWS The Direct Access Observer Scheme places it's first candidate, Miranda Bowen, on Joe Johnston's 'The Wolfman', starring Benicio Del Toro, Anthony Hopkins, Hugo Weaving and Emily Blunt.
BLUE PLAQUE FOR SIR DAVID LEAN - 17 APRIL 2008
As part of the David Lean Foundation Centenary Celebrations, on the 17th April 2008 the Directors Guild Trust unveiled its new blue plaque for Sir David Lean at his birthplace, 38 Blenheim Crescent, Croydon, with founder Guild member Sir Alan Parker CBE presiding. This was followed by an evening of celebrations at BAFTA, including a champagne reception and a private screening of the BFI's newly-restored print of David Lean's 1949 film The Passionate Friends
One-day Workshop - Sunday 15th August 2010 (Shaw Theatre, London)
Voice coach and teacher Terry Besson (Awaydays, Nickelodeon, Band of Brothers, Stones in his Pocket) will be giving a rare insight into the tips, tricks and techniques to create and sustain great vocal performances both on and off mic, talking about accents, dialects and vocal transformations, directors’ resources and generally filling in the blanks in this sometimes-neglected area of a director’s knowledge and craft.
Places are limited.
For more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
ADVANCED TOOLS OF DIRECTING ACTORS - A WEEKEND MASTERCLASS WITH SIMON PHILLIPS
Friday 2nd July 2010 7pm to 9pm, Saturday 3rd & Sunday 4th July 10am to 5pm
Shaw Theatre London NW1
In January the Guild staged an introduction to Advanced Tools of Directing. The workshop sold out immediately and garnered high praise from participants. Simon Phillips’ ground-breaking techniques give directors their own unique methodology, neither dependant on theories of writing nor acting, but relating specifically to the director’s craft. He brings new insight and clarity to the complex task of directing film - and though Simon’s methods are targeted at film for now, they are equally applicable to the theatre.
The Guild is now delighted to promote a weekend master-class exploring the Tools of Directing Actors in detail.
Because of the one-to-one nature of Simon’s work, places are very limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
The Guild is able to offer a limited number of heavily discounted placements
Find more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
INTRO TO 3D EVENING WITH DECODE
SEMINAR Thursday 24th June 2010 6.30pm for 7pm til 9pm
Phoenix Artists Club, 1 Phoenix St, London WC2H 0DT
An informal introduction to shooting in 3D presented by the Guild and Decode. Guest speakers will give an introduction to the joys and pitfalls of shooting 3D, and Decode will demonstrate a full RED 3D kit.
All welcome, tickets £6, including a glass of wine.
The Phoenix Artists' Club entrance is in Phoenix Street, off Charing Cross Road.
Nearest tube station: Tottenham Court Road. More information HERE.
Doors open 6.30pm and the event runs from 7pm to 9pm.
Reserve a place - book online HERE
DVD OF THE INAUGURAL DG PETER BROOK LECTURE AVAILABLE SOON
Given by Guild President Peter Brook , hosted by Sir Richard Eyre
at the Barbican, London, Saturday 6th February 2010
STORIES & TREATMENT
Workshop - Saturday 8th May 2010 (London)
How do you work up a story? What should be in a treatment? Are there really only nine different story structures?
The Guild welcome distinguished playwright and screenwriter Stephen Jeffreys, who will be giving an in-depth analysis of story and treatment, with a practical opportunity to examine and discuss treatments brought by workshop participants. Maximum 25 participants.
For more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
PETER CHEESEMAN - born 27 January 1932; died 27 April 2010
Peter Cheeseman, the founder of the New Vic Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent and pioneer of theatre-in-the-round and ensemble theatre in the UK has died aged 78. A dedicated supporter of new writing and new talent, Peter helped shape the careers of many of the finest artists working in theatre and film today.
Theresa Heskins, the current artistic director of the New Vic, says of the theatre's work, "both in our in-the-round auditorium and throughout the broader community, will be a lasting tribute to Peter's vision of a theatre that is accessible, inclusive and democratic".
Robin Thornber writes about Peter Cheeseman
- The Guardian 29th April 2010 - READ MORE HERE
AN ACCOUNT OF THE INAUGURAL PETER BROOK LECTURE
By Guild member Richard Shannon
If you missed Peter Brook's stunning lecture at the Barbican Pit on 6th February, here is a very personal account by one of the people who helped make it happen.
"It was a summer’s afternoon in 2008. Peter Brook had just opened Fragments at the Young Vic. I had arranged to meet Peter over tea to discuss the notion of a Peter Brook Lecture..."
READ MORE HERE
CASTING & AUDITIONING ACTORS
Workshop - Sunday 25th April 2010 (London)
The Guild and FuseLondon are delighted to announce a joint one-day workshop designed to help directors and actors get the most from the audition process across theatre, film and TV. Three experienced casting directors will host Q&As and oversee auditions by participating directors in each genre, using professional actors. Tickets are limited and there are a limited number of observer places.
GUEST CASTING DIRECTORS:
Catherine Willis- TV: (‘Waking the Dead’, ‘Casualty’, ‘Little Miss Jocelyn’, ‘Coming Up’, ‘Dead Set’, ‘FM’ , 'Criminal Justice'. and more);
Manuel Puro- FILM: (‘The Scorpion King 2’, ‘Land Girls’ ‘When Saturday Comes’, ‘Thick As Thieves’, ‘Dead Man Running’ and more);
Ginny Schiller- THEATRE: (Soho Theatre, Chichester Festival Theatre, RSC, Regent’s Park, ETT, Rose Theatre, Kingston, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, Oxford Playhouse, Bristol Old Vic, Birmingham Rep, Young Vic, Theatre Clwyd - also casts TV, Film and Radio. (TO BE CONFIRMED)
Find more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
CREATING VIOLENCE FOR STAGE AND SCREEN
Workshop - Sunday 21st March 2010 (London)
What makes a great fight and how do you choreograph it? How do you film it? How do you find a fight director – and how do you work with them? What’s an “acceptable” level of violence – and what isn’t? Where do you hire weapons - or an armourer? What’s the greatest movie fight EVER?
Hosted by fight director and British Academy of Fencing member Andy Wilkinson and Guild Chair Ivor Benjamin, this one-day workshop at the Shaw Theatre, London, is a broad introduction for directors at all levels to the challenges of staging violence for film, television and theatre. The day will include: developing action from the script, dramatic and moral challenges, the differences between stage and screen, working with fight directors, organising rehearsals, legal, insurance and health & safety issues and sourcing weapons. We will be showing examples of work, and discussing individual examples.
Find more information see TRAINING or view a PDF file HERE.
GIANNI MASSARO (Obituary)
The World Cinema Alliance (www.cinema-alliance.org) has announced the death of founder member Gianni Massaro in Rome, 16th February 2010. Massaro held an enduring love and passion for cinema and was an ardent defender of creativity of the authors of films and a stern opponent of censorship. He had been President of Eurimages, Président du Conseil Supérieur Italien des Communications, President of the National Union of Producers (ANICA) as well as being an expert advisor to the European Commission, the Council of Europe and to the OMPI. His death is a great loss to the world of European cinema.
The Directors Guild of Great Britain and the Directors Guild Trust join other associations in sending his family and friends our deepest condolances. The funeral will take place in Rome,18th Febuary 2010.
THE DIRECTORS GUILD OF GREAT BRITAIN AND THE DIRECTORS GUILD TRUST PRESENT
THE INAUGURAL PETER BROOK LECTURE, GIVEN BY PETER BROOK
Saturday 6th February 2010 at the Barbican Pit Theatre, London
Honorary President of the Director’s Guild Peter Brook CH, CBE gave the Guild’s inaugural lecture named in his honour on 6 February at the Barbican Pit. One of the world’s great directors, Brook’s work over the past fifty years has irrevocably influenced the landscape of theatre, and has inspired new generations of theatre practitioners.
Sir Richard Eyre chaired the post lecture discussion with an audience of fellow practitioners and guests from the industry and arts including Mike Leigh, Sir Trevor Nunn, Dame Liz Forgan of Arts Council England, Rosemary Squire of Ambassador Theatre Group, Janet Suzman, Alan Rickman and Frances de la Tour. Eyre said “Peter has inspired at least three generations of directors and continues to do so. This event is a wonderful platform for the Directors Guild to establish their annual lecture, named in Peter’s honour.”
“Peter has been the honorary president of the Guild for over twenty years, so when he gave permission for us to stage a lecture in his name, and said he wanted to give the inaugural lecture himself, we were thrilled beyond measure”, said Guild Chair Ivor Benjamin. “This is a great honour for the Guild and a significant opportunity to promote and celebrate the craft of the director.”
The Peter Brook Lecture will become an annual event, giving leading directors from across disciplines a platform to address their craft, culture and industry. This year’s event will be held at the Barbican – where Brook is staging his new play 11 and 12, as part of BITE 10.
For press information about the Lecture, please contact Kate Morley at Blueprint PR - 07970 465 648
ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND - PUBLIC CONSULTATION
A.C.E. have announced a new, wide ranging consultation “Achieving great art for everyone” running until 14 April 2010. They are canvassing public opinion on the challenges and opportunities for the arts in England and a future direction for policy ad finding. This is an important exercise for ACE and for the arts community; members’ contributions are welcome. The consultation can be found HERE.
THE UK PREMIERE OF ADVANCED TOOLS OF DIRECTING - BY SIMON PHILLIPS
Workshop - Saturday 30th January 2010 (London)
A one-day seminar at the Shaw Theatre, London, premiering a radical new approach to directing. Simon Phillips is a Direction Coach for feature film directors and script development. Tools of Directing has been presented in the USA and Europe, and the Guild is very proud to be the first to showcase Simon’s methods here in the UK. Find more information HERE.
UK FILM COUNCIL - PUBLIC CONSULTATION 2009
The UK Film Council has launched a three month public consultation - UK Film: Digital innovation and creative excellence - into the most significant revision of its activities since it was created in 2000. The Council’s priorities are to protect current funding, to support filmmakers, to safeguard film culture and to promote digital innovation. It also aims to create two new funds, a £15m Film Production Fund which is focused on the pursuit of creative excellence and places a distinct emphasis on first- and second-time filmmakers, and a new £5m Innovation Fund, tasked with helping UK film companies across the value chain develop new business models for the digital age. The council will also be cutting their overheads by 20% in order to push as much money as possible into front-line film activity.
To read the full consultation, click HERE.
You can respond using the online survey HERE.
The consultation will close on Tuesday 9 February 2010. (09/12/09)
INTRODUCTION TO MEISNER TECHNIQUE FOR DIRECTORS - WITH STEPHEN BAYLY
Workshop - Saturday 21st November (London)
A one-day introduction to the methods of Sanford Meisner, as used by actor/director Sidney Pollack, writer/director David Mamet etc, to draw emotionally rich performances from their actors, whether on stage or screen. Find more information HERE.
JOHN-JACKSON ALMOND APPOINTED ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF SHAW THEATRE, LONDON
The Shaw Theatre is proud to announce, that under the new management of the Novotel London St Pancras, Directors Guild member John-Jackson Almond has been appointed as the new Artistic Director.
GUILD MEMBER IN FAKE DISMEMBERMENT SHOCK POLICE PROBE HORROR
Member Geoff Searle found himself in big trouble with the local police when he took a break from filming a short horror film in woods near Stevenage and a local lad found a hidden (fake) corpse. Read the full story here HERE. (19/09/09)
AN INTRODUCTION TO INDIAN THEATRE
Find journalist Priyal Sanghavi's background to Indian modern theatre under Articles or link directly HERE. (06/09/09)
EQUITY - PROGRAMME OF ONE DAY WORKSHOPS FOR MEMBERS
Equity are running a series of training days in Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, London and Newcastle on the following subjects: Copyright for Creatives, Freelance Survival Guide, Networking via the Web, Build your own Website. The courses are subsidised - the cost to participants is £25 per workshop. Details can be found HERE. (02/09/09)
DIRECT ACCESS UPDATE
Trailers are now online for two of the films with Direct Access candidate placements; Miranda Bowen observed Joe Johnston on The Wolfman, Sarah Grohnert was placed on Jon Amiel's Creation.
The Wolfman trailer is HERE
Creation trailer is HERE
Creation will open the Toronto Film Festival on 10th September 2010.
BAFTA will hold a special preview screening and Q&A on 13th September 2010.
(01/09/2009)
BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE & UK FILM COUNCIL TO MERGE?
Proposals to merge two of the UK’s flagship film bodies were put to the DCMS on 20th August. Plans for a single body to support film could benefit both the filmgoing public and the industry, said Film Minister Siôn Simon. The full DCMS statement can be read HERE.
Writers' Guild General Secretary, Bernie Corbett criticises the proposal HERE. (24/08/2009)
ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND'S THEATRE ASSESSMENT 2009
In 2008 Arts Council England (ACE) embarked on a widespread public assessment gather an up-to-date picture of theatre in England. In particular, they looked to identify changes that had occurred in the theatre sector and its environment since the Theatre Review of 2001 and the additional £25 million that ACE invested in theatre organisations from 2003 onwards. The Guild contributed to the assessment.
The findings have now been published as ACE's Theatre Assessment 2009, which identifies several emerging themes for ACE's attention including risk and innovation, talent development, diversity and touring. The Assessment can be read HERE. (22/08/2009)
CODE FOR THE PROTECTION OF COPYRIGHT MATERIAL
The Alliance for the Protection of Copyright (APC) has published a newly updated Code of Practice to protect those involved in both the submission and receipt of proposals for film, television and radio.
The code can be found in PDF format HERE. (21/08/2009)
DIRECT ACCESS UPDATE
Direct Access candidate, Celia Galan has begun her placement observing Director Louis Leterrier (The Incredible Hulk) on his remake of Clash of the Titans (Warner Brothers & Legendary Pictures) starring Sam Worthington, Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes. Celia will observe Louis at work during the shoot and right through to post-production, gaining that coveted insight into the workings of high level feature film making, thereby giving her the tools to better helm her own feature.
If you would like more information on the scheme, or to make a donation to the DGT to keep this valuable scheme running ensuring another round of emerging directors can benefit from this unique training, please contact the Guild. (04/08/2009)
NICOLAS ROEG IS NEW TRUST PATRON
The Guild is delighted to announce that veteran director and cinematographer Nicolas Roeg joins Sir Alan Parker as a patron of the Directors Guild Trust. (30/07/2009)
DIRECT ACCESS NEWS
Direct Access Candidate Celia Galan is confirmed to start observing a feature film director in the latest placement of the scheme; more details to follow.
Celia's placement marks the last in this round of the Direct Access Director Training Scheme - run by the Directors Guild Trust, in association with Skillset and Film4. The Scheme has seen a string of successful placements; Miranda Bowen observed Joe Johnston on The Wolfman, Sarah Grohnert was placed on Jon Amiel's Creation and Yann Demange is currently being mentored by Adrian Shergold. The first round of this hugely successful apprenticeship style observer scheme is now drawing to a close, and the Directors Guild Trust is currently seeking new funding in order to launch the next round.
| 'The only way to learn about directing is to direct, the next best thing is to watch somebody else do it' Sir Richard Eyre For more information on the scheme, or if you are interested in being involved or would like to make a donation to the Trust in order to extend this valuable scheme, please email mailto:%20directaccess@dggb.org. (24/07/2009) |
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IAN EMES: IT WAS A THURSDAY NIGHT
June @ The Horse Hospital
Unseen Pink Floyd 'Dark Side of the Moon' animation and artwork exhibited.
Art/Music collective STOMPER present a one night event, Ian Emes: It Was A Thursday Night, showcasing the work of filmmaker and DGGB member Ian Emes. This is a rare opportunity to view the works of Ian Emes, one of the foremost British animators of our time. Ian Emes is a pioneer in the visualisation of music and his internationally renowned work helped usher in the era of the music video.
More info: http://www.stomper.org.uk/ianemes.html
GENDER EQUALITY FORUM - NATIONAL THEATRE 16th JUNE 2009
Sphinx Theatre Company is convening a forum entitled VAMPS, VIXENS AND FEMINISTS - The Elephant in the Room, examining the issues around women's employment in theatre, film, radio and television. The conference is supported by the Directors Guild, the Writers' Guild, Arts Council England, Women in Film and Television and Equity. Speakers already confirmed are: Kate Buffery, Katherine Rake, Beatrix Campbell, Tanika Gupta, Tracy Brahin and David Edgar.
The conference will take place in the Olivier Theatre at the National Theatre on 16th June 2009 from 10 am to 1.30 pm. Tickets are free but places are limited - to receive an e-invitation please email
mailto:info@sphinxtheatre.co.uk?subject=Vamps,%20Vixens%20and%20Feminists with the subject line "Vamps, Vixens and Feminists" including your name, contact details and, if applicable, the professional body to which you belong before Friday 5th of June. Alternatively, please ring Sphinx theatre on 020 7401 9994.
For details in a printable PDF click here. Further news and information at: http://www.sphinxtheatre.co.uk/
SIMON CHANNING WILLIAMS Please click here to read Jack Gold's personal tribute to producer Simon Channing Williams, who died on 20th April 2008. (30/05/09)
SCI-FI LONDON FILM LAB and DIRECTORS GUILD OF GREAT BRITAIN PRESENTS
“THE PROBLEM OF SCI-FI / FANTASY FILMMAKING” Money, money, and of course, money – this is often the main reason why many Directors tend to stay away from sci-fi and fantasy film projects. But do sci-fi movies need mega-budgets? And how do you pitch the idea for a sci-fi film without making it sound expensive? This panel discussion will talk to directors with genre filmmaking experience and try to extract the pearls of wisdom and the magic wand that will get your film off the launch pad, looking at casting, crewing, creative and post production challenges you may be faced with.
Guests include:
MARC CARO (Delicatessen, Dante 01)
RICHARD JOBSON (A Woman in Winter, The Purifiers)
CORY MCABEE (American Astronaut, Stingray Sam)
GERALD MCMORROW (Thespian X, Franklyn)
Moderated by Alex Fitch.
SAT 2nd MAY 4.15 PM / £4 DGGB Members / £6 Non-members
Booking Online: APOLLO CINEMAS Piccadilly Circus or ring 020 7451 9944
'GETTING PERFORMANCES FROM ACTORS' WITH HERBERT WISE '
FULLY BOOKED - Thursday 30th April 2009
The Directors Guild Trust is honoured to present this highly practical one day workshop designed to de-mystify the process of directing, demonstrating ways of getting to the heart of a good performance. Booking: call Vanessa 0207 580 9131. Please click here for more information. (23/03/09)
OSCAR 2009 CONGRATULATIONS from the Guild to Danny Boyle (Best Director), James Marsh (Best Documentary Feature), Kate Winslet (Best Actress), Christian Colson (Best Film), Anthony Dod Mantle (Best Cinematography), Chris Dickens (Best Film Editing) and all the British Oscar winners this year - a bumper crop for UK Film.
HAROLD PINTER Please click here to read Sir Richard Eyre's obituary to friend and colleague Harold Pinter, who died on 24 December 2008. Pinter was a member of the Guild for almost 20 years. (29/12/2008)
DIRECT ACCESS NEWS Jon Amiel is the latest Director to provide the opportunity for a Direct Access Candidate to observe a Director at work. As part of the scheme run by the Directors Guild Trust in association with Skillset and Film 4, Sarah Grohnert will shadow Jon Amiel from pre production right through to post on his latest film Creation, starring Paul Bettany and Jennifer Connelley. (09/12/08)
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Click Here to read more |
MOBILE TV BOOST FROM EUROPE The European Commission has published recommendations to boost mobile TV across Europe. Brussels made clear that mobile operators as well as broadcasters should be able to compete on a level playing field to develop new TV services with the potential of spreading EU-wide services, products and standards far beyond European borders, as with the successful GSM standard for mobile telephony. European digital industry lobbies attacked the Commission for pursuing indirect tax increases for mobile handsets, and, by favouring EU industry, the move could increase prices for consumers and hamper the spread of new mobile TV services.
More here. (11/12/2008)
FILM PARTNERSHIP LEASING The Government has outlined measures to counter avoidance of taxation by film leasing partnerships through the use of long-funding leases. Under standard sale and leaseback partnership arrangements, films are acquired or produced and leased to other companies over a period of up to 15 years. The rents are taxable, but the effect of the sale and leaseback arrangements allows a deferral of tax for up to 15 years. The new anti-avoidance rules are aimed at arrangements under which the existing leases are replaced with new leases designed to qualify as long funding finance leases of plant and machinery. The effect was to replace taxable income with income that was largely free of tax.
The effect of the new rules is that rentals are taxable in full to the extent that they are payable after 13/11/08 and relate to periods after that date. For more information click here.
THE COMMONWEALTH INSTITUTE & THE UK COALITION FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY staged a short conference on Thursday 6th November 2008 on International Development and the Diversity of Cultural Expression. The Directors Guild attended the conference and supports the outcomes. Find a conference report at the Commonwealth Institute website. (6/11/2008)
THE ARTS COUNCIL ENGLAND THEATRE ASSESSMENT 2008 closed on 31st of October 2008.
The Directors Guild response to the Assessment can be read here.
Further details can be found at the Theatre Assessment 2008 website. (5/11/2008)
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THE DIRECTORS GUILD AT THE TIMES BFI 52nd LONDON FILM FESTIVAL 2008 - This year's festival saw a Directors masterclass with Director Atom Egoyan and another successful DGGB annual party. Click here to read more. |
JOAN LITTLEWOOD TRIBUTE AT BFI - ON STAGE AND SCREEN 6 October 2008 To mark the 50th anniversary of Joan Littlewood's groundbreaking 'A Taste of Honey', the BFI pays tribute to one of Britain's greatest theatre directors and late DGGB member. On Monday 6th October you can attend a celebration of her life and work on both stage and screen, mixing reminiscences from her friends and colleagues with rare footage. The same evening there is a screening of 'Sparrows Can't Sing', Littlewood's only feature vividly portraying East End life. More info (03/10/2008)
ROEG AT
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CONGRATULATIONS FROM THE GUILD TO THE BRITISH FILM INSTITUTE The BFI celebrate their 75th Anniversary with a wide range of special events, films, workshops and much more. Read more |
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RUSHES SOHO SHORTS 2008 |
BFI YouTube CHANNEL: HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE BFI NATIONAL ARCHIVE The BFI has launched its official channel on YouTube where people can watch a collection of 150 archive films that date back as far as 1896, completely for free: Go to BFI YouTube Channel. The BFI is digitising as much as possible so that it can be more widely seen by new audiences. (21/07/2008)
MANIFESTO FOR CHILDREN'S ARTS: 21 July 2008 (London) This ACA conference to launch the Action for Children's Arts marks the beginning of a national campaign and is aimed at anyone with a professional or personal interest in the arts for children aged 0-12. Venue: Unicorn Theatre, London. Date: 21 July 2008, 10.00am - 4.30pm. Tickets from the Unicorn Theatre. Further information (08/07/2008)
DIRECTORS
BRIGHTON FESTIVAL 2008, A SELECTIVE MEMORY - by Guild member Faynia Williams and Richard Crane: "A white horse stands silent and dangerously huge in a crowded basement, occasionally turning its long face to look at us looking at him then turning back again to watch the wall. This is the living backcloth to Fevered Sleep’s An Infinite Line, specially commissioned for the Brighton Festival 2008, and in one image sums up the incongruity and relaxed power of the indefinable arena for all the arts that this extraordinary Festival has become...” Click here to read the complete article. (11/06/2008)
DIRECT ACCESS NEWS The Direct Access Observer Scheme places it's first candidate, Miranda Bowen, on Joe Johnston's 'The Wolfman', starring Benicio Del Toro, Anthony Hopkins, Hugo Weaving and Emily Blunt.
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Please click here to read more. (29/05/2008) |
BLUE PLAQUE FOR SIR DAVID LEAN - 17 APRIL 2008
As part of the David Lean Foundation Centenary Celebrations, on the 17th April 2008 the Directors Guild Trust unveiled its new blue plaque for Sir David Lean at his birthplace, 38 Blenheim Crescent, Croydon, with founder Guild member Sir Alan Parker CBE presiding. This was followed by an evening of celebrations at BAFTA, including a champagne reception and a private screening of the BFI's newly-restored print of David Lean's 1949 film The Passionate Friends
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