About the Course:

This two day course explores the art of crafting and executing a director’s vision for a musical. Participants will learn essential techniques, including conducting research, collaborating with creative teams, and effectively communicating their vision to cast and crew. Topics include pre-rehearsal planning, creating cohesive production timelines, fostering teamwork, and addressing challenges like limited resources or inexperienced team members. The course also emphasizes practical tools for blocking, working with actors, and managing relationships with stage managers and production teams.

Day One will focus on theory and learning, diving deep into the fundamental skills that every director of musicals needs. Participants will explore the concept of a director’s vision, how to develop it, and how to adapt it for different types of musicals. Through guided discussions, participants will analyze case studies of successful productions, examine strategies for conducting research, and learn how to communicate their vision effectively to creative teams. Topics such as building collaboration, fostering creativity, and balancing artistic and logistical priorities will also be covered.

Day Two will give participants the opportunity to apply these skills by sharing concepts for their dream shows. Additionally, participants will explore how to implement these techniques with their own strategies, tailoring them to fit their unique creative approach.

Where:

Orpheus Musical Theatre
17 Fairmont Ave.
Ottawa, ON K1Y 1X4

When:

Day One
Sunday February 16, 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Day Two
​Monday February 17, 1:00pm - 5:00pm

Who:
Open to All Ages and All Levels of Experience

Cost:

Regular: $50.00

Orpheus Members: $40.00
Discount will automatically apply after selecting Regular Fee

*PAY WHAT YOU WANT 1: $25.00

*PAY WHAT YOU WANT 2: $15.00

*Orpheus Schoolhouse courses are intentionally the lowest priced in town to ensure affordability and accessibility for all. Read Our Philosophy below. PAY WHAT YOU WANT options are intended for those who require the accommodation. If you can afford the full price, we ask that you be honest and leave the PWYW options for those in need. If the PWYW options are still out of reach for you, we have bursaries available. Please contact J.T. Morris at jt@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca for more information on bursaries.

Course fees are non-refundable

About the Instructor:

Damon Bradley Jang is a multi-disciplinary performing artist originally from Vancouver, B.C. who now resides in Toronto.

He is an alumnus of the Birmingham Conservatory at The Stratford Festival and was a company member there for two seasons. Predominantly trained as a performer, highlights of Damon's performing includes West Side Story, Singing In The Rain (TUTS) Thoroughly Modern Millie (Gateway) A Midsummer Night's Dream, Honk! (EXIT 22) CATS (FCP) Mamma Mia! (FVS) Hello Dolly! (RCMT). The Rocky Horror Show (WAT) and Bah Humbug (Vancouver Moving Theatre) and many other venues.  Recently he has moved into directing / choreography with credits that include: Once On This Island (Fabulist, 3 Broadway World Vancouver Awards) and Cinderella , Broadway Edition (Byrne Creek, Mainland BC Premiere, ) Into The Woods (NSLOS, BWW Vancouver Winner Best Musical)  Who Drinks Mocktails On The Beach?! (Canadian Fringe Tour) and the World Premiere of  DIM SUM DIARIES : Second Helping. He has also assisted or associate directed/choreographed with Tarragon Theatre, Drayton Entertainment (The Sound Of Music), The Stratford Festival (Casey and Diana, Alls Well That Ends Well), Arts Club Theatre Company (Beneath Springhill) , and others. He is the Co-Artistic / Marketing and Education Director of Fabulist Theatre. Highlights of his career include assisting TONY AWARD WINNER Christopher Gatelli during Season 1 of Schmigadoon! and TONY AWARD WINNER Lonnyu Price on a New York Workshop of BEACHES The Musical.

Damon enjoys educating young performers and has taught/adjudicated all over Canada, including the Regional and National STAR FESTIVAL, which recognizes Canadian high school theatre. He holds a Bachelor of Performing Arts and Musical Theatre diploma from Capilano University in North Vancouver and is a member of ACTRA Toronto and Canadian Actors Equity Association. UPCOMING: SEW: a Comedy with Music and Dance in Toronto

Our Philosophy:

Quality arts education should be available and accessible to all! Orpheus Schoolhouse courses are specifically designed to provide the opportunity of quality training by accredited and experienced instructors at lower cost rates. Bursaries are available to those who qualify. For information on bursaries, please contact J.T. Morris at jt@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca or by phone at 613-729-4318.

Orpheus welcomes individuals from equity seeking communities, intersecting identities, and people with disabilities. Orpheus is committed to providing a space that is free of discrimination and harassment, and fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Please advise us of any accommodation required which will enable you to participate.