Navigating the Journey from Actor to Director
Make it Sparkle Video with Billy Tighe
Broadway Performer and Teacher
6:10 (runtime)
Director’s Notes
In this video, Broadway Actor and Theatre Director Billy Tighe talks about taking the leap from acting to taking the helm on stage…
Billy discusses his transition from acting to directing, highlighting his initial struggles with imposter syndrome and the responsibility of managing an entire production.
He shares his approach to directing, learning from both positive and negative experiences with previous directors to develop effective communication, scheduling, and leadership skills.
Billy credits Mark Hoebee of Paper Mill Playhouse for his "open sandbox" approach to rehearsals, encouraging actors to contribute their ideas and experiment in a supportive environment.
In his directing style, Billy aims to create a collaborative atmosphere where everyone feels they contribute to the production, avoiding the "chess piece" approach some directors take.
He emphasizes setting clear goals and expectations for cast and creative team members, starting from the first rehearsal, to avoid confusion and potential conflicts.
By focusing on fostering a playground-like atmosphere, promoting teamwork, and establishing clear goals, Billy ensures a more enjoyable and effective production process for all involved.
About Billy Tighe
Billy has performed with Symphonic Pops Orchestras and Broadway tours internationally and all across the country and is honored to have the opportunity to continually work with many of the worlds greatest musicians. His symphonic career started while attending the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music where he began his professional relationship with the late Maestro Erich Kunzel of the Cincinnati Pops. Since receiving his BFA in Musical Theatre, he has worked with the Toronto, Atlanta, Modesto, Vancouver, Detroit, Indianapolis, Long Beach & Cincinnati orchestras in a variety of programs. When not performing with symphonies he is continually pursuing a career in professional musical theatre. His recent theatrical credits include the Broadway tour of WICKED as Fiyero; La Cage Aux Folles starring George Hamilton, where he played the son Jean-Michel; the U.S. premiere tour of Dirty Dancing; The Marriott Theatre (Hairspray as Link); Goodspeed Opera House (Happy Days as Potsie); North Carolina Theatre (Dreamgirls as Dave) and many others. Currently, Billy is in the Tony Award winning Broadway revival of Pippin. Billy's studies began at the Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts. Born in Germany, raised in Marietta, GA, college in Cincinnati, OH, and now calls NYC home with his wife and Boston Terrier Buster.
Specialties: Gymnastics, Break Dancing, PADI certified Scuba Diver