In Charge of the Roller Coaster

<p><em>In Charge of the Roller Coaster: A Guide to Directing Plays and Other Media</em> provides students with a collection of stories and anecdotes that promote insight into the myriad opportunities challenges and discoveries related to the art of directing.<br /><br />Over the course of 10 chapters students learn how to use space rhythms movement shapes mass and color to create action meaning and atmosphere. They grow to understand the importance of inventiveness and problem solving within the theatre. The text covers how to foster collaboration with actors designers writers musicians producers and other creative partners. Dedicated chapters explore script analysis managing unexpected scenarios the creation of panic and suspense rehearsal techniques thoughts on updating classics and more. Throughout imagined scenarios and questions help readers discover problems and find innovative solutions. The revised first edition includes new and updated citations for sourced material.<br /><br />Employing a unique storytelling perspective and designed to help readers experience a tapestry of what is involved in directing plays and other media <em>In Charge of the Roller Coaster</em> is well suited for courses in directing.</p><p><strong>David J. Magidson</strong> is a professor of theatre at Wayne State University in Detroit Michigan where he teaches courses in directing and playwriting. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Utah and has directed 100 plays for many different theatre companies including the Jewish Ensemble an Actors’ Equity Association theatre at which he served as the artistic director for five years. Dr. Magidson has also served as the director of Wayne State University’s Center for Arts and Public Policy and artistic director of the Lenore Marwil Jewish Film Festival for 10 years.</p>