Masters of the Stage

On May 20, 2013, at the Emerging Artists Symposium on Musicals, Stage Directors and Choreographers Foundation hosted a panel discussion called “The Cycle of Assisting” with director/choreographer Maija Garcia, director Shaun Peknic, and director Seth Sklar-Heyn. The artists, each with unique assistant and associate experience, discuss the challenges and complexities of supporting directors and choreographers while nurturing their own individual artistic development. This personal discussion addresses: managing complex relationships and remaining flexible in changing circumstances; running rehearsals and working as the director’s liaison to the cast and creative team; maintaining the show in the director’s absence; and using these experiences to move into the director’s role. The discussion was moderated by SDCF Producing Director Ellen Rusconi.