Rachel E. Blackburn

Directing Background

With over 40 productions under my direction—including plays, operas, and devised works—I bring a feminist and intersectional approach to theatrical direction. My work emphasizes collaboration, ensemble building, and creating space for diverse voices both on and off stage.

Selected Directing Credits

Selected Performance Work

In addition to directing, I maintain an active performance practice that includes acting, stand-up comedy, and collaborative devising work. My performance experience informs my directing and teaching, giving me insight into the performer's experience.

• Acting — Various theatrical productions throughout career; inc. Anne in The Diary of Anne Frank, Charlotte in Showing Charlotte, Beth van Buren in War of the Worlds, voiceover work, etc.
• Stand-Up Comedy — Performance and development of original comedic material
• Collaborative Work — Ensemble-based performance creation
• Improvisation and Devising — Long form improv performer (The Harold) and devised performance

Dramaturgy

My dramaturgical work spans production dramaturgy, new work development, and research-based support for theatrical productions.

• Production dramaturgy for classical and contemporary works
• New work development and script consultation
• Research and educational materials for productions
• Translations and adapturgy

Stage Management & Administration

My background includes extensive experience in production management and arts administration.

• Certified Stage Manager — Tulsa Performing Arts Center (2006 – Present)
• Stage Management — Multiple productions as SM and ASM
• Box Office Management — Front-of-house operations
• Artistic Coordination — Administrative production and organizational roles

International Experience

My work has taken me internationally, with training and experience globally.

• Young Vic Genesis Directors Project — London, UK (Member)
• Theatre of Boal Workshop — Calder Theatre, London, UK (December 2012)
• International Experience: London, UK, Dublin, IE, and Toronto, CA — Beyond Boundaries Theatre, Fluff Productions, Operating Theatre Company, Great Big Theatre Company, Opera Ireland, Southwark Playhouse, Mad Dog Casting, Ltd., Arts Educational Schools, Oakville Drama Series, Burl-Oak Theatre Group