Super Scared: 

I'm a director new to NYC, and I know the main way I can direct work instead of being an assistant/associate forever and ever is by working with playwrights to self-produce. I've done a deep search for details about indie producing, and there's really not a lot of information out there! What are your tips–or a step by step-for producing new work independently in NYC?

--

Dear Super Scared,

This is a solid observation! On that note, keep paying attention. Pay attention to the theaters, festivals, spaces, organizations that present and support independent new work. Pay attention to playwrights who are currently writing and see if you can access their plays, either by asking them or New Play Exchange or 1319 Press or getting on mailing lists about playwrights, like New Dramatists, Clubbed Thumb, New Georges, Rough Draft Festival, Great Plains Theater Commons, etc. Then, reach out to a playwright about working together. The best art and best collaborations come from an organic, connected place - you are the right director for this piece because _____. It has to mean something to you for the work to be worth it. 

After that, take next steps. Do you want to direct a reading? A workshop? A full production? Is there a particular space you want to do it in? Is it AEA? Is it site specific? The biggest thing I always say is - don’t spend money you don’t have. Create a budget for the project, once you nail down WHAT you want to do and see where that budget can be balanced by the resources you have and be creative when it comes to generating revenue to balance the expenses. A budget is an artistic project and a reflection of your values, just like the play it is supporting. Reach back out any time! Fefu is here. And if you have a project and want specific consultation, check out Privy. Insider tip. 

Always here to help, 

Fefu