Precision in Performance: Directing Actors
About this Event
Directing actors is the skill most directors feel least prepared for. This five day intensive at London Film School is built to change that.
Led by award winning director Udayan Prasad, the course strips away the non essentials and focuses on what happens between director and actor: how to communicate, how to rehearse, and how to shape a performance that holds up on the day.
You’ll work hands on with professional actors, directing scenes from feature film screenplays and taking sole charge of a monologue. Every session ends with feedback from the group, the actors and Udayan, so you leave with practical tools rather than theory.
With only nine places, every director gets generous rehearsal time and close mentorship.
What you’ll learn
- How to give clear, playable notes built on actions and verbs
- How to structure rehearsals with purpose and discipline
- How to use blocking, placement and rhythm to support character intention
- How to keep performances strong under time pressure
- What actors need from a director, straight from the actors themselves
Agenda
Day One: What is acting?
Practical exercises to understand acting from the inside, then the essentials: objectives, subtext, status, and giving notes an actor can play.
Day Two: Directing each other
Working in threes, you’ll cast one another in short scenes, rehearse, and present to the group, experiencing both sides of a note.
Days Three and Four: In the room with professional actors
Direct scenes from feature screenplays with two experienced actors, a new pair each day, preparing from the script alone.
Day Five: Monologues and casting
Direct a monologue from films such as The Conversation, Body Heat or All of Us Strangers, then join an open Q&A with the actors and a discussion on casting.
Your tutor
Udayan Prasad is a multi award winning film and television director. His films include My Son the Fanatic, Brothers in Trouble and The Yellow Handkerchief (William Hurt, Kristen Stewart, Eddie Redmayne), which premiered at Sundance. On television he directed two BAFTA nominated collaborations with Alan Bennett, was lead director and executive producer on Netflix’s Selection Day, and directed episodes of Becoming Elizabeth and The Musketeers. He teaches directing at film schools across Europe, including London Film School and the Łódź Film School.
Who is this for?
Directors who have made short films or completed filmmaking training, understand basic production workflow, and are ready for rigorous, concentrated development. This course is not suitable for complete beginners, and you may be asked to share previous work.
Good to know
📅 Monday 7 to Friday 11 December 2026
🕤 09:30 to 17:30 daily
📍 London Film School, 24 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9UB
💷 £1,100
👥 Limited to 9 participants
FAQs
Do I need directing experience?
Yes. You should have directed at least one short film or completed some filmmaking training.
Will I work with real actors?
Yes. Days three to five are spent directing professional actors.
What is the refund policy?
You can cancel within 14 days of booking for a full refund, unless the course has already started. Full terms are on the London Filmworks website.
Who do I contact with questions?
Email [email protected] or call 020 7836 9642.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 1192.45
