Short Courses uncovered

As we gear up for our Spring Evening Courses, taking place between January and March 2026, we spoke to some participants about their experience of exploring the world of theatre directing on our Summer School - Introduction to Directing.

Rafa, Lucy, Abby and Sophie told us about what they got out of the course, which is an opportunity to learn all about the responsibilities of the role of the director and to help you find your creative voice through practical exercises.

Rafa, Cambridge

How was the course?

The course has been incredible. I've just loved every minute of it really. It's just so fun working with people who are so passionate, and it's been really fun and interesting. The other participants are amazing, they're just so engaged and I love working with them.

Describe the course in three words

Fun, engaging and relaxed.
 

Lucy, Switzerland

Why did you take this course?

I love directing, I love acting, I love all parts of theatre. Directing is the one thing that I don't really have a chance to explore at my school.

What would you say to someone considering taking the course?

I would say absolutely do it. It's a great opportunity to meet new people, get to know the School if you're thinking about applying, or just step out of your comfort zone and learn something new.

What's the tutor like?

Yeah, she's really nice. She's very excited, full of energy, she gets everyone motivated. She teaches us a lot.
 

Abby, Southwest London

How have you found the course?

It’s been really fun. It's given me lots of angles of looking at theatre that I didn't expect. The first day was looking at directing with actors, and today I found quite surprising and interesting as we were looking at how to use a space with sound and lighting, and how to bring everything together.

What is the tutor like?

The tutor is clearly so passionate and I think she's got a really interesting perspective. It's lovely to get to soak that up and enjoy.

How would you describe the course in three words?

It's been interesting, creative and fun.

Sophie, Brighton

Why did you take this course?

I've enjoyed drama from a young age and I wanted to look at it from a different angle, looking towards my future. I've always really enjoyed the writing side of things, and getting to see how it's all put together, behind the scenes and with the actors. 

The actors were just amazing. I've never actually worked with professional actors before and that was just amazing.

Where did you hear about this course?

Me and my Mum have been looking at drama schools - it's quite tricky to find the right course. I wanted to come here to look at building, to see if I liked it. I've got so much more out of it than I thought I would.

Would you consider applying to study full time at Guildhall School?

Hopefully! I really, really like it. The building, the people…everyone is properly dedicated. There wasn't a single person messing around in that room. Everyone was here to do the same thing. I've learned so much in just two days.

Are you interested in theatre directing?

Sign up for Introduction to Directing: Preparing for Rehearsals, a six-week course taking place on Tuesday evenings from 20 January 2026 where you can learn key techniques to analyse text and understand character objectives, make performance decisions and apply these in the rehearsal room. 

If acting, writing, music production, music composition or theatre appreciation is more up your street, we have short courses to suit. We're also proud to offer courses for professionals in the creative industries where you can learn about marketing, arts evaluation and event production.

All our Spring Evening Courses are currently open for bookings. Sign up now!