CALL FOR DIRECTORS

CALL FOR DIRECTORS

TIP is seeking passionate, collaborative, and visionary directors for upcoming seasons. We invite proposals from experienced directors as well as emerging artists who are excited to work in a vibrant, volunteer-driven community theater environment.

ABOUT US

TIP is the oldest, largest English-language theater company in Japan and is dedicated to producing professional-quality performances of classical and contemporary works while fostering opportunities for education, artistic growth, and inclusive participation. Our productions feature performers and designers from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and we are committed to creating a supportive and welcoming environment for our community.

AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES

We are currently accepting proposals for the following production slots:

• Fall Main Stage production (October 2026)

  • Geki Shogekijo, Shimokitazawa

    • 80 seats in proscenium configuration

    • Appropriate for small to medium casts (3-10 actors)

    • Classical plays, contemporary plays, musicals

• Winter staged reading (February 2027)

  • Our Space, Hatagaya

    • 30 seats in a fully flexible configuration

    • Appropriate for small casts (1-5 actors)

    • Contemporary plays, musicals

• Spring Main Stage production (May 2027)

  • Theater Sun Mall, Shinjuku

    • 280 seats in proscenium configuration

    • Appropriate for large casts (15+ actors)

    • Classical plays, musicals

Directors may propose specific titles or submit general concepts aligned with our artistic mission and community/audience base.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Selected directors will be responsible for:

• Developing a cohesive artistic vision

• Collaborating with the production team (producers, designers, stage managers, etc.)

• Casting and leading rehearsals in a respectful, organized manner

• Working within budgetary and scheduling guidelines

• Supporting a positive, inclusive rehearsal environment

Directors should demonstrate strong communication skills, an ability to work with performers of varying experience levels, and a commitment to community engagement.

SUPPORT

TIP is equipped to provide:

• Full funding and help with budget planning

• Licensing and performance rights

• Japanese-speaking theater liaison

• Largest English-speaking actor pool in Tokyo

• Audition organization and logistics

• Robust community of production staff (designers, stage managers, producers)

• Rehearsal organization and logistics

• Load in/out organization and logistics

• Established publicity team and marketing outlets (including printed flyers, social media presence, etc.)

PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS

Interested directors should submit:

• A cover letter or email outlining interest and relevant experience

• A résumé or CV

• For specific show proposals:

  • Title and playwright/composer

  • A brief artistic vision statement

  • Concept ideas (design, casting approach, setting, etc.)

  • Preliminary production considerations (cast size, technical needs)

• References (OPTIONAL)

TIMELINE

Proposals are due by March 31st, 2026.Season selections will be announced in May 2026.

COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION

TIP is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our organization. We strongly encourage directors of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels to apply.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit materials electronically to production@tokyoplayers.org

We look forward to hearing your ideas and collaborating to bring compelling, meaningful theater to the TIP community!