This summer, as I prepare to take on a new role as a head of school, I realize that I must take a hiatus from one of my great loves – directing theater. For many years, I have loved working with groups of kids, from age 8-18, bringing plays to life. I’ll be too busy this summer getting to know my new school community and preparing for the new school year. I’ll miss my theater camps – all the amazing people and the breathtaking creativity. And, as I was contemplating this change, a question emerged:
What do a head of school and
a theater director have in common?
I wonder if the two roles are so very different, because I believe that a theater director and a head of school both:
➢ ensure everyone feels good about their role
➢ bring together a vision and a script
➢ rely on the diverse strengths of others
➢ pay attention to casting
➢ challenge people to stretch beyond their comfort zone
➢ allow everyone’s voice to be heard
➢ juggle many balls in the air at the same time successfully
➢ manage their resources and budget
➢ keep a sense of humor
➢ share expectations with parents that the kids will be stars
➢ listen to the opinions of others
➢ honor everyone involved in the production
➢ wear lots of different hats
➢ do frequent sound checks
➢ work together on a unified goal with the cast
➢ take care of the details
➢ make the best of the inevitable slip-ups
➢ spend lots of time preparing
➢ appreciate those working behind the scenes
➢ know when to step out of the limelight
At Friends' School, I’m looking forward to getting to know all the amazing people and being part of the breathtaking creativity.
Break a leg!
No comments:
Post a Comment