Working on Wicked was an incredible experience.
The scale of what can be achieved in film is truly awe-inspiring, and that sense of limitless possibility is what I loved most about being part of this production.
Assistant Directors in film are often likened to Stage Managers in theatre, and stepping into this role for Wicked felt familiar in many ways.
Overseeing rehearsals and facilitating the creative process drew on my theatre background, but the scale of the production and the complexity of coordinating so many departments elevated the challenge in an exciting way.
One of my primary focuses was working closely with the Choreography team, acting as a bridge between the creative process and logistical execution. From attending early-stage design presentations to liaising with the Art Department, Set Decoration, Props, Costume, Hair & Makeup, Special Effects, Music, Sound, Production, Producers, Stunts, Studio, Locations, Casting, Visual FX, Special FX, Electrics, Construction, Assistant Directors, Choreography and Direction, I ensured that the work created in the rehearsal space aligned seamlessly with what was being developed by other departments.
Embedded within the Choreography team, I served as a crucial link between departments for all rehearsal scheduling, design aspects, music, rehearsal set construction, budgeting and management of dancers. I worked in close partnership with the 1st Assistant Director to align rehearsal schedules with the overall shoot schedule, keeping the wider AD team informed about progress in rehearsals while principal photography was ongoing. My collaboration with the Key 2nd Assistant Director and Crowd 2nd Assistant Director was vital in ensuring we had the correct performers for both rehearsal and shoot days, always staying within the allocated budget.
